Food

"PORTLAND -- A genetically modified test strain of wheat that emerged to the surprise of an Oregon farmer last month was likely the result of an accident or deliberate mixing of seeds, the company that developed it said Wednesday."

"The first comprehensive study of rivers and streams in California has found that sport fish in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta watershed have higher concentrations of mercury and PCBs than anywhere else in the state."

"Japan, the biggest importer of soft white wheat grown in Oregon and Washington, postponed a 25,000-ton order from a Portland grain shipper Thursday, the first market fallout after the discovery of genetically engineered wheat plants growing in an eastern Oregon field where they shouldn't have been."

"Would you like to know the life history of that steak, before you eat it? Technology exists to give you that information, at least in Michigan, where the state government requires all cattle to carry an electronic tag for tracking purposes."

"Organizers say 'March against Monsanto' protests held in 52 nations and 436 cities. Anti-Monsanto rallies sparked by a Facebook page in February."

"Food companies big and small are struggling to replace genetically modified ingredients with conventional ones."

"MOSS LANDING, Calif. — With piles of fresh strawberries beckoning consumers at markets and stores this season, an alliance of a major retailer, fruit growers and farm workers has begun a program to promote healthy produce and improve working conditions."

"Some fruits, like apples, you can find anywhere. But others have gotten a little bit lost in today's global food business."

"German brewers have warned Chancellor Angela Merkel's government that any law allowing the controversial drilling technique known as fracking could damage the country's cherished beer industry."

"Updated federal advice on mercury levels in fish appears to have stalled within the U.S. department of health, frustrating scientists and advocacy groups who argue that exposure to mercury may be dangerous at lower levels than previously thought."