Brazil is the second largest producer of genetically modified crops in the world, and mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods has been in effect since 2003. Foods for humans and animals must be labeled if more than 1 percent of the product contains or is produced from GMO’s, and companies that don’t follow the law are fined. GM labeling hasn’t prevented Brazil from becoming an innovator in the technology. The labeling law also doesn’t appear to have stopped shoppers from buying foods with certain genetically modified ingredients. The Center for Food Integrity said the impact of labels depends on its consistency, what it says, and whether or not the technology is so common it can actually lose its fear factor, which is what happened in Brazil. Even an anti-GMO group like the Environmental Working Group has an article on its website titled “GMO’s Don’t Scare Away Shoppers,” specifically referencing Brazil. The article notes that researchers suggest “consumers are, in some cases, more likely to buy GM foods, especially if the label claims to provide a nutritional benefit.”
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