State GMO labeling bills: While Congress dithers, states are getting busy. The Sunlight Foundation’s SCOUT database on state GMO legislative initiatives is searchable. Examples:

Detente between producers of GMO and labeling advocates: USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack held a meeting to attempt to forge some kind of accord between producers of GMO foods and advocates for GMO labels. By all reports, it didn’t work. Earlier, Vilsack tried to negotiate detente between GMO producers and producers of organic foods. That didn’t work either.

GMO Salmon: The FDA says it will not allow imports of GMO salmon. Since GMO salmon are produced in Canada and Panama, this action in effect bans GMO salmon from the US food supply. The FDA is working on labeling guidelines and probably wants them out before allowing imports.

Monsanto’s conversation: Monsanto’s interactive website invites you to be part of the conversation. Aything you like. Someone from Monsanto will respond. This site is clearly keeping Monsanto’s PR staff on its toes. Here is just one example:

Michelle M: If you can sue a small farmer for GMO’s accidentally getting in their crop, can I sue you if they are found in my organic child’s body? Monsanto: Hi, Michelle. The truth is, we don’t sue farmers when our seeds end up on their fields unintentionally. We never have, and we never will. Farmers are the heart of our business. That’s why we’ve made a commitment and policy related to this area of concern, and it’s available here on our website.