Community Natural Foods presents premier of Seeds of Change March 28, 2007

Community Natural Foods presents premier of Seeds of Change
Come learn about the impact of biotechnology on farming and society

Calgary, Alberta – March 14, 2007 – Community Natural Foods is proud to present the Calgary premiere of Seeds of Change, a documentary about genetically modified crops and how they have changed the face of agriculture in Canada. The film will be shown Wednesday, March 28th at 7pm at the Plaza Theatre, 1133 Kensington Road N.W. Limited seating is available for $10 at the door with proceeds going to support The Council of Canadians GE Free Canada Campaign.

Despite the introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops in the mid-1990s, very little public discussion has taken place on this important issue. These crops, by definition, contain genetic material from multiple species and may pose new risks to human health and the environment. GM ingredients occupy up to 70 per cent of conventional grocery space. Companies are now producing GM crops that contain pharmaceuticals. What's more, ‘Terminator’ seeds have been created to be sterile, which may force farmers to buy seed every year instead of saving seeds as they have traditionally done. Increasingly, the biotechnology industry is patenting these crops, claiming ownership and control over life itself, not to mention our food supply. As a result, many communities are declaring themselves genetically modified/engineered crop free zones (or 'GE Free Zones') including Powell River, B.C., Salt Spring Island, B.C., P.E.I., parts of California and other regions around the world.

Seeds of Change, a film by University of Manitoba (U of M) professor Stéphane McLachlan, U of M PhD student Ian Mauro and independent videographer Jim Sanders, presents a balanced, yet hard-hitting examination of the controversy surrounding genetically modified crops. The film contributes a new voice and perspective to the debate – that of farmers.

Researcher Ian Mauro says, "It's the first time that the risks associated with GM crops have been assessed from the views and experiences of farmers, those at greatest risk and the very people who should be at the forefront of this important public policy debate."

The film is an excellent primer, for both urban and rural citizens, and will help inform decisions, either in the field or the grocery store. Ian Mauro, researcher and filmmaker, will join Paul Kelly of Community Natural Foods and Mel Teghtmeyer of The Council of Canadians at the film screening to discuss the film and GM issues in general.

About Community Natural Foods Ltd.:

Community Natural Foods has been the hub of Calgary’s holistic health community for 30 years. Its two locally owned markets, located at Chinook station and 10th Avenue and 12th Street S.W., are the trusted source for delicious organic food and sustainable lifestyle products. Community’s customers and staff fervently believe in supporting local organic farms, fair trade suppliers and family farms.

For more information contact:

Community Natural Foods Seeds of Change

Paul Kelly, Director of Marketing Ian Mauro, Co-director

403.614.0243 204.979.4958

Official Website: http://www.communitynaturalfoods.com/