Groups launch campaigns on GMO labeling in Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. — In a TV ad paid for by advocates of labeling genetically modified foods in Oregon, voters are told 64 countries have labeling requirements and none of them saw an increase in food costs.

An opponents’ ad says labels would be costly for food producers and consumers and would not show which ingredients in a product are modified.

The two opposing camps combined have reported contributions of nearly $3 million and expenditures of more than $2 million. The campaigns have 30 days to report donations and expenditures.

Oregonians will decide the measure’s fate in November. Similar measures in California and Washington state failed narrowly after millions of dollars were spent, mostly by biotech corporations opposed to labeling.

The anti-labeling campaign spent $45.6 million in California and $33.3 million in Washington state.