Hundreds around the world protest genetically modified organisms

Sign from the March Against Monsanto held in Windsor as well as other cities including Guelph, London and Brantford. Photo by CTV Windsor. Saturday, October 13, 2013

On a long weekend that often centres on food hundreds of people protested one of the biggest seed producers Monsanto.

The March against Monsanto and genetically modified organisms (GMO) happened in 36 countries around the world Saturday in local cities including Brantford, Guelph, London and Windsor.

Activists say they are spreading awareness about, what they believe, is the harmful effects of genetically modified foods.

“Allergies, increased pesticide exposure, toxins, cancer, infertility.” Nutritionist Melanie Hesketh tells CTV News.

Right now, Canadians have no idea if they’re buying foods that are genetically enhanced.  The protesters are calling on Ottawa to bring in mandatory labelling of products.

“Having ownership of what we choose to provide for our families should be a right for us consumers.”  Windsor-West MP Brian Masse says.

A statement on Monsanto Canada’s website:

“Genetically modified food is safe and no riskier than consuming the same food containing ingredients from crop plants modified by conventional plant improvement techniques.”

But many activists disagree and say they will continue to fight.

With files from CTV Windsor