TORONTO – Neil Young is boycotting Starbucks.
In a message posted on his website, the Toronto-born singer said he is upset that Starbucks teamed up with agriculture giant Monsanto to sue the state of Vermont over a law that would require the labelling of food made with genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
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Opponents claim the language of the law is too broad and violates free speech.
“Starbucks is supporting a lawsuit that’s aiming to block a landmark law that requires genetically-modified ingredients be labelled,” the 69-year-old singer wrote. “Amazingly, it claims that the law is an assault on corporations’ right to free speech.”
Starbucks has denied any role in the Vermont lawsuit.
“Starbucks is not a part of any lawsuit pertaining to GMO labelling nor have we provided funding for any campaign,” the Seattle-based company said in a statement. “Starbucks is not aligned with Monsanto to stop food labelling or block Vermont State law.”
Earlier this year, the state passed a law that requires labels on processed GMO foods and for retailers to post signs and displays of unpackaged genetically engineered foods. Restaurants are exempt from the requirements.
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-with files from The Associated Press
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