LOS ANGELES -- Calories. Nutrients. Serving size. How about
"produced with genetic engineering?" California voters will soon
decide whether to require certain raw and processed foods to
carry such a label. In a closely watched test of consumers'
appetite for genetically modified foods, the special label is
being pushed by organic farmers and advocates who are concerned
about what people eat even though the federal government and
many scientists contend such foods are safe. More than just food
packaging is at stake. The outcome could reverberate through
American agriculture, which has long tinkered with the genes of
plants to reduce disease, ward off insects and boost the food
supply. International food and chemical conglomerates, including
Monsanto Co. and DuPont Co., have contributed about $35 million
to defeat Proposition 37 on the November ballot. It also would
ban labeling or advertising genetically altered food as
"natural." Its supporters have raised just about one-tenth of
that amount. If voters approv