UNFI, independent distributor of natural and organic products, unites in opposition to GM alfalfa

Saturday, February 26, 2011 by: Ethan A. Huff, staff writer
Tags: UNFI, GMOs, health news

(NaturalNews) In order for your local food markets, cooperatives, and specialty retail stores to be able to stock the natural and organic products you and your family thrive upon, somebody has to transport and deliver them in a cost-effective, efficient manner. UNFI, one of the top distributors of natural and organic foods, supplements, and other products across North America, is not only a key player in the distribution chain of natural and organic products, but the company has taken a noteworthy stand against the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) recent decision to deregulate genetically-modified (GM) alfalfa.

Divided into six principal units of operation, UNFI helps supply North Americans with natural and organic groceries, frozen items, personal care products, produce, vitamins and supplements. And the Woodstock Farms Manufacturing division of UNFI is a leading importer of nuts, seeds, trail mixes, dried fruit, and other healthy snack items through North America. Without the vital services provided by UNFI and its various divisions, there would be far more limited access to the wholesome foods and products upon which the natural health community relies.

But beyond the company's commitment to just the product portion of the natural and organic sectors is its commitment to the very policies that affect the integrity of the entire industry. UNFI, along with 21 other companies and organizations, recently issued a letter of united opposition to the USDA's deregulation of Monsanto's Roundup Ready GM alfalfa. Included on this list were both Stonyfield Farm and Organic Valley.

"USDA's decision to allow unlimited, nationwide commercial planting of Monsanto's GE (genetically-engineered) Roundup Ready alfalfa without any restrictions flies in the face of the interests of conventional and organic farmers, preservation of the environment, and consumer choice," the letter states.

"USDA has become a rogue agency in its regulation of biotech crops and its decision to appease the few companies who seek to benefit from this technology comes despite increasing evidence that GE alfalfa will threaten the rights of American farmers and consumers, as well as damage the environment."

To read the entire letter, and to support the efforts of these organizations in opposing the continued deregulation of GM crops, visit:
http://www.unfi.com/OpenLetter_GEAlfalfa.asp...