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http://sciencemeetsfood.org/open-letter-to-food-babe/
We read with great interest your recent post in which you responded to those who
have openly disagreed with you. It truly is deplorable that some of your critics
choose to rebut in such an inappropriately personal manner. However, because we
believe in open discussion on food, we do take issue with your oversimplification of
science and how you portray the next generation of students trying to feed a
growing population. You have claimed to appreciate the work of food and nutritional
scientists, but the language in your posts is insulting and attacks our profession
without really understanding what we do. In a time when sound science is needed
more than ever, why do you so openly choose to ignore and vilify it?
You preach organic and non-GMO eating as the only option for healthy living. This
may have worked for you as you transformed your lifestyle, and it may work for
others. There has been no substantial evidence proving organic products provide
greater health outcomes than their conventional counterparts, and no credible
study has shown that GMO crops, proven to be substantially equivalent to native
crops, are deleterious to ones health. Buying these usually higher-priced food items
may be a possibility for you and others, but the majority of consumers do not have
the means to purchase these products. These consumers need to know that
organic/non-GMO food is not a necessary component of healthy eating, as scientific
consensus has gathered thus far. An example of a more realistic, and impactful,
message to spread is the importance of eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
It is all too tempting for us to use this opportunity to pick apart your investigations
individually. Instead we will take your attacks in stride and use them as motivation
to further our scientific prowess and do a better job in communicating good science
to the public. Imagine the impact you could have if you did the same. Instead of
being known as a fear monger or sensationalist, you could be someone who
institutes real, meaningful, and lasting changes to the food supply. The battles you
have picked thus far do not even begin to tackle the REAL issues challenging the
future of food. You dont need to change your opinions, but you could make more
progress in your efforts by understanding and working with, not against, the
scientific community and food industry.
Sincerely,