Jonathan wrote: > My biggest problem with the organic "movement" is the opposition to > genetically modified foods. I figure cheaper, longer-lasting, > pest-resistant foods would be something that everyone would agree with, > but I guess not. The problem is that the genetic tinkering often results in plants that are dependent on specific patented chemicals, that cross-breed with normal plants causing problems, or that have unintended health consequences. I've read several articles on the subject in environmental magazines, _Mother Jones_, and _Science_, but I don't have any links handy right now. >I have no problem with organic products as a premium option to > consumers, but it seems like a lot of folks want organic produce to > replace > conventionally grown products. Something like that will only hurt the > poor, > since they'll be unable to afford as many vegetables. Ever heard of supply and demand? As more organic food is grown, the price is dropping. Many vegetables are very affordable now, yet many poor people don't buy them. A pound of baby carrots (4 or more snacks) costs the same amount as 1/8 pound of potato chips (1 snack), but most people, especially poor people, are more likely to eat the chips. That's because money is not the only factor. There's also marketing, availability (many poor neighborhoods have no real grocery store, only mini-marts that carry a very limited selection of fresh foods at triple the price), learned tastes, and habits. ---'Becca