GMO labeling measure attracts big money in Oregon

PORTLAND — An Oregon ballot measure on the labeling of genetically modified foods is starting to attract big money.

With ballots going out to voters this week, the two opposing camps combined have reported contributions of more than $12 million and expenditures of more than $11 million.

Labeling opponents, who are expected to raise a lot more money than proponents, have reported cash and in-kind contributions of $7.3 million thus far. They have reported spending $7.2 million, according to filings with the Oregon Secretary of State’s office.

As in previous cases, the anti-labeling campaign is chiefly financed by out-of-state food corporations and biotech companies that grow engineered crops. Among the largest contributions: $1.6 million from Monsanto; $1.4 million from PepsiCo Inc., and $870,000 from Kraft Foods.

Labeling proponents show $4.8 million in contributions and $4.2 million in expenditures. Some of their highest donors include the Portland-based nonprofit Center for Food Safety, which donates $1.1 million and $900,000 from California-based Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap. The labeling campaign has also received small contributions from nearly 3,000 Oregon donors.