A group of farmers and environmental organizations is calling on Health Canada to require clear labels on pork from gene-edited pigs.
Earlier this year, Health Canada approved pigs that have been edited to resist Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV). The agency says the pigs are safe to eat and have the same nutritional value as other pork. Because there are no health concerns, special labels are not required.
But Lucy Sharratt of the Canadian Biotechnology Action Network says Canadians should have the right to know if their food is genetically engineered. She points to polls showing most Canadians support labelling.
Canadian law does not require companies to label genetically engineered foods, though there is a voluntary system. Critics say that system may become weaker as the Canadian General Standards Board prepares to close.
Some pork producers are also unsure about selling gene-edited pork. René Roy of the Canadian Pork Council says many consumers in Canada and other countries may not feel comfortable buying it. Since Canada exports about 70 per cent of its pork, producers must also consider international markets.
Supporters and critics alike say the main issue is choice. They want shoppers to be able to decide for themselves — but that can only happen if products are clearly labelled.
