Pollen is transferred mainly by wind and insects. There are four tomato varieties currently approved for food use in Canada although they are not currently being grown and are not available in the marketplace. The tomatoes have been genetically engineered to delay ripening or slow the softening process resulting in firmer fruit with less damage occurring during transport. In addition, an insect resistant tomato has been approved for food use. It is a myth that fish genes have been inserted into tomatoes and are on store shelves.
Research continues on genetically modified tomatoes.
The labelling system for genetically engineered foods is regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Health Canada. Labelling of genetically engineered foods is mandatory if there is a health or safety concern such as an allergy, or if there is a nutritional change in the food. Voluntary labelling standards are being developed for genetically engineered foods. These standards will provide food manufacturers with the option of promoting foods as genetically modified or not genetically modified. This sheet is designed to introduce you to food labelling in general and to labelling of genetically engineered foods.