Tell Amazon and major grocery stores: Say NO to GMO apples!

Producing GMO apples may lead to an increase in pesticide use and may have other unintended consequences for our health and environment. And they could contaminate non-GMO and organic orchards. Meanwhile, all the benefits would go to Intrexon. We need your help to stop Amazon and grocery stores from selling this risky GMO!

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Despite public opposition, inadequate safety assessments, no labeling, and weak regulations, Amazon has been selling Intrexon’s genetically engineered, non-browning “Arctic” apples as “Arctic ApBitz Dried Apple Snacks.” Recently, the GMO apple company announced its plan to expand its risky and unlabeled GMO apple product line. I strongly object to this unlabeled genetically engineered product and ask that your company reject genetically engineered Arctic apples. McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Gerber have committed to not to sell Intrexon’s new GMO apples, but Amazon has yet to make a similar commitment.

Unlabeled genetically engineered apples could find their way into fruit snacks, juice, baby foods, or apple sauce -- products predominantly consumed by children and babies who are at increased risk for any adverse health effects.

The GMO apple hasn’t undergone independent safety testing, even though scientific studies show that genetic engineering techniques like gene silencing may result in harmful unintended impacts. Scientists believe apples’ natural browning enzyme may help to fight diseases and pests, and without it, farmers may have to increase their pesticide use on this new GMO apple. Apples already carry some of the highest levels of toxic pesticide residues. In addition, since browning is a sign that apples are no longer fresh, “masking” this natural sign with genetically engineered gene silencing could lead people to consume contaminated apples. Whether dried or fresh, selling unlabeled genetically engineered apples is irresponsible given they have not be adequately assessed for health or environmental risks.

This product is completely unnecessary and poses several risks to apple growers, the food industry, and consumers. There are naturally non-browning apples and apple products that are non-GMO and organic on the market. Please listen to your customers’ concerns and reject genetically engineered apples.

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