End of Farmer’s Markets?

Belinda | June 23, 2009 | 1 Comment

Most of you have probably heard about the Food Safety Modernization Act, aka H.R. 875, proposed by Representative DeLauro. With what seems to be increasing outbreaks of bacteria and unsafe substances in everything from baby formula to peanut butter, there has been even more urgent impetus to address the fact that our food safety system needs some serious reorganization. Multiple agencies at the federal, state, and local levels are “responsible,” which also means many types of food fall between the cracks.

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Apparently, there is all sorts of hype about this resolution and it’s hard to find out the facts. Some have accused Monsanto of sponsoring this bill which, in the guise of food safety, will put an end to organic, family, and backyard farms.

Before you get yourself into a tizzy about losing your favorite jam-maker at your Farmer’s Market, take a look at KCRW’s Good Food‘s interview with Tom Philpott of Grist.org who has written a nice piece to outline the key issues. He also links to Food & Water Watch‘s efforts to debunk the myths floating out there.

We definitely need better food safety measures.

We also need measures that protect the public and their access to safe, healthy, nutritious, local and organic foods.

Tags: farmer's market, food, Food Justice, food safety, Food Safety Modernization Act, H.R. 875, health-diet-nutrition, local food, organic, political

Category: Featured Articles: Food Politics, Featured Articles: Health & Nutrition, Food Politics, Health & Nutrition

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With a flair for spontaneity, pizzazz, creative excellence and her own unique sense of aesthetic grace and perspective, we have our very dear friend, Belinda (or B, to some of us). Although an incredibly accomplished professional and career woman, B’s down-to-earth approach and demeanor transcends all scenarios, communities and people. She manifests, in her day-to-day, the essence of the word “Zomppa” as demonstrated by her extraordinary commitment to creating sustainable and positive change for us and future generations to come. She’s asked for a dog every year since she was five. Check out Belinda’s work on global education research and coaching: www.hummingbirdrcc.com or more about her portfolio www.belindachiu.com.