Marchers in Laguna voice opposition to GMOs

Hundreds of people gathered near Main Beach on Saturday to protest genetically modified seeds used to grow food as part of the international March Against Monsanto.

The campaign comes as the demand for labeling of GMO — genetically modified organism — and non-GMO food alternatives increases, according to the March Against Monsanto website.

St. Louis-based Monsanto operates with an environment-first mentality, spokeswoman Charla Lord wrote in an emailed statement.

“We’re proud of our collaboration with farmers and partnering organizations that help make a more balanced meal accessible for everyone,” she wrote. “Our goal is to help farmers do this in a more sustainable way using fewer resources and having a smaller impact on the environment.”

Bills requiring food corporations to let consumers know if their products contain genetically modified ingredients have been introduced in a number of states.

Laguna Beach police reported no problems with Saturday’s protest.

—Bryce Alderton

Twitter: @AldertonBryce