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Learn more about the impacts of genetically-modified foods

EVER wondered how genetically-modified foods could possibly affect you? Then head to the City of Fremantle's reception room at 6.30pm, Wednesday, February 20.

Dr Maggie Lilith from the Conservation Council of WA will present the short film The Future of Food before hosting an information session on how GM foods could affect human health and the environment.

The film explores the issue of crop contamination overseas, looking at the implications of introducing genetic modifications to food through future farming practices.

Dr Lilith will then discuss how genetic modification could affect WA, as well as issues surrounding labelling, patents, GM foods on shelves and the complex political market forces that control the world’s food systems.

The City of Fremantle is a GM-free zone, following a policy adopted by council in late 2001.

“Fremantle was the first city in WA to lead the charge against GM foods,” Fremantle Mayor Peter Tagliaferri said.

“It was a bold and innovative move when council declared the ban but the decision was an acknowledgment of the widespread health and environmental concerns, as there are still too many unknowns involved.

“Dr Lilith spearheaded the Say NO to GMO campaign last year, an alliance between the Conservation Council, Organic Growers Association of WA and concerned consumers, supported by the City of Fremantle.

“This information session is an opportunity to get the hard facts on why GM foods have such a potential for risk.”

Bookings for the two-hour session are essential; contact The Meeting Place on 9335 3394. Entry to the reception room is via the white curved staircase, opposite Myer, near the children’s playground in Kings Square, Fremantle. A gold coin donation is required.