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Vegetarian Action's main focus is on vegetarianism,
(and how it impacts on and relates to other parts of life). As an
organisation, we try not to mix it with other issues, however compelling
we personally find them.
But when it comes to Genetically Engineered (GE) or Genetically
Modified (GM) foods, the implications of this technology mean that
Genetic Engineering or Modification of foods is a
vegetarian issue! In simple terms, genetic engineering
takes genes from one organism and places them in another. This means
that amongst other things, animal genes can be inserted into plant
species.
Through this process, the line between vegetarian and non-vegetarian
foods is blurred. As there is no information given on end products
about what genes have been inserted in the product you are eating,
there is really no guarantee that vegetarians will not be eating
food containing animal genes.
It is essential for vegetarians to boycott GM foods, both for the
sake of maintaining their own vegetarian diet, and also for the
sake of ensuring that vegetarianism can continue to be possible!
GM foods are already in Australia. For example, soy beans and their
derivatives, canola and corn (or products containing these) which
you buy in Australia may be genetically modified.
Check the labels and buy foods specifically labelled GM free. Vegetarian
Action also distributes the Greenpeace "True Food Guide (How
to Shop GE-Free)" to its supporters.
Further reading:
Whichever way you look, the future
is vegetarian...
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