FREEDOM OF CHOICE

One of the dangers in hydroponics is the formation of algae in the (circulating) nutrient solution. This is prevented by passing it through strong ultraviolet light, which will break up chlorophyll molecules.

Ionizing radiation, which could kill disease germs and other microorganisms (hydroponics will work in a sterile environment) is not being used. But now that the FDA is at long last getting ready to approve food preservation by irradiation, at least for certain foods [AtE Oct 84], a new question arises: should such food be labeled? The Netherlands, which permits irradiation, uses the label shown. Some say the label would be regarded as a seaming and frighten buyers off, others say it could attract buyers when it is explained that unlike pesticides and fumigants (let alone chemical additives), irradiation leaves no residues.

I cannot see why government force should be used to force a universally valid rule for this case. (Remember the organized opposition by the alleged "consumer" advocates to automated pricing and computerized checkouts? If you don't like it, you can now go to a mom-and-pop shop and pay a little more for your preference.) But labeling gives you an informed choice: why deny Ralph Nader his right to gorge himself on carcinogenic nitrates and organically grown worms?