Food Labeling

In his July 2 Opinion piece defending continuing research on genetically engineered foods, Stephen L. Cohen wonders why there are protests and why “thoughtful dialogue is in desperately short supply.” He cites two studies that may give us clues to the allegation that genetic modification in our food supply may be harmful, yet he complains that there are not enough “rational voices.”

Nowhere does he bring in the issue of labeling. In the past few years, chemical- and food-ingredient labeling has become more stringent, yet American consumers do not yet have the right, by law, to know whether we are eating a genetically engineered carrot stick or one of the old-fashioned variety.

I am not a physician or scientist, but excuse me! I was under the impression that we carry out the research first, determine that the product is safe, then we introduce it into the food supply with a label. Not the other way around.

STUART LUBIN

Los Angeles