If one of two packages of, say, frozen edamame on the supermarket shelf says “partially-produced with genetic engineering,” which of those packages would you buy?

Because companies such as Monsanto, the nation’s leading producer of genetically-modified seeds, believe you would choose the non-GMO food, they are spending record amounts against Initiative 522, which would require labeling of genetically-engineered foods and seeds offered for retail sale in Washington.

Proponents address this issue directly: “We also should have a right to choose whether we want to buy and eat genetically engineered food. Labels matter. They ensure transparency and preserve the freedom to make our own decisions about the food we eat. I-522 is a step in the right direction.”

Opponents point to increased costs. From Washington Wire, “Advocates of Washington’s Initiative 522 say it won’t cost a dime, but a new opposition report says that if voters require warning labels on genetically modified food products, the typical family of four would pay an additional $490 a year for groceries.”

Local supporters of the voter-approved ban on use of genetically modified seeds in San Juan County are hoping the 62 percent majority of county voters who supported Initiative 2012-4 last year will vote “yes” on Initiative 520.

Genetically engineered agricultural commodities would be labeled “genetically engineered,” and genetically engineered packaged processed foods would be labeled “partially produced with genetic engineering.”

Many foods would be exempt, including alcoholic beverages, certified organic foods, foods not produced using genetic engineering, as certified by an approved independent organization, and foods served in restaurants. Foods consisting of or derived from animals that have themselves not been genetically engineered, regardless of whether the animal has been fed any genetically engineered food, are also exempt. Processed foods containing small amounts of genetically engineered materials would be exempt until July 1, 2019.

The voters’ guide explanatory statement points out that federal law regulates safety and quality of food shipped between states, and Washington law regulates safety and quality of food produced and sold within the state. Both federal and state law identify and regulate foods that are “misbranded” or “adulterated,” but neither state nor federal law requires specific labeling of foods produced using genetic engineering.

The “fiscal note” attached to the explanatory statement says that the five-year regulatory costs would amount to about $3.4 million. For more info, go to voteNOon522.com, yeson522.com or goo.gl/qppYIQ.