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Letters: Organic foods need labelling, too

There was a time not long ago where we thought horizontal genetic transfer was not only unnatural but impossible in the wild.

Editor:

There was a time not long ago where we thought horizontal genetic transfer was not only unnatural but impossible in the wild.

Research in the last 20 years has shown that not only to be false, but completely natural if not rampant in the natural world.

The irony is that it shows the commonality of all species and that we are quite literally related to one another as genes shared by all life forms on this planet are interchangeable and happens continuously, often, and is essential to optimal health.

What was once thought unnatural is not only commonplace but we, as humans, wouldn’t even exists if it wasn’t for jumping genes.

Genetic horizontal transfer (GMO) as virtually all the genes that separate us from our cousin primates are jumping genes.

So, as far as I’m concerned, GMOs are more natural than forced selective breeding which can actually create inferior stock.

Most would die in the natural world if they don’t regress to their original form in the wild.

A toy poodle, as opposed to a wolf.

What worries me about the organic industry is their refusal of labelling what pesticides are being used as not only are many untested but are often more toxic than the tested synthetic variety.

New research has shown many organic-based pesticides are killing queen bees, although may have less residue on plants, they are more toxic.

Organic foods are big industry, too.

We need to label organic foods on what chemicals are being used.

Andrew Merritt

Nemiah Valley