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{{Infobox person |
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| name = Jeffrey M. Smith |
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| image = Jeffrey M. Smith Image.jpg |
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| caption = Smith delivering speech |
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| birth_date = {{birth year and age|1958}} |
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| birth_place = New York, U.S.<ref name="Reuters 2008">{{cite news | url = https://www.reuters.com/article/environment-biotech-crops-activist-dc/u-s-activist-circles-globe-to-fight-biotech-crops-idUSN0750723920080307 | title = U.S. activist circles globe to fight biotech crops| last = Gillam | first = Carey | publisher = Reuters UK | date = March 7, 2008}}</ref> |
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| birth_date = 1956 |
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| nationality = American |
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| birth_place = [[New York]], United States<ref name="Reuters 2008"/> |
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| education = [[Maharishi University of Management]] |
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| residence = [[Fairfield, IA]] |
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| occupation = [[Consumer advocate]], author |
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| nationality = [[United States|American]] |
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| spouse = |
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| education = [[Maharishi University of Management]] (formerly Maharishi International University) |
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| website = {{url|www.responsibletechnology.org/}} |
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| occupation = [[Consumer advocate]], [[Author]], [[politician]] |
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| name = Jeffrey M. Smith |
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'''Jeffrey M. Smith''' (born 1958) is an American [[consumer activism|consumer activist]],<ref name="CBS 1">(April 27, 2012) [http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7406794n New GMO crops proposed, consumers want labeling], ''CBS News'', accessed December 16, 2012</ref> self-published author, and former politician.<ref>{{Cite web|date=December 23, 2013|title=Coming to Tampa – Jeffrey M. Smith, International best-selling author and filmmaker; Executive Director, Institute of Responsible Technology and leading spokesperson on the health dangers of GMOs|url=https://patch.com/florida/southtampa/coming-to-tampa--jeffrey-m-smith-international-bestselling-author-and-filmmaker-executive-director-institute-of-responsible-technology-and-leading-spokesperson-on-the-health-dangers-of-gmos_dc0d2582|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Tampa, FL Patch|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Jeffrey M. Smith Biography|url=https://www.responsibletechnology.org/about/jeffrey-m-smith-biography/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Institute for Responsible Technology|language=en-US}}</ref> He is the author of two books on genetically engineered foods, ''Seeds of Deception: Exposing Industry and Government Lies about the Safety of the Genetically Engineered Foods You’re Eating'', and ''Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives'', which he made into a film in 2012. He has appeared twice on each of the shows -''[[The Dr. Oz Show]]'' and ''[[The Doctors (2016 TV series)|The Doctors]]''.<ref name="new-yorker">{{cite magazine | url = http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2013/02/04/130204fa_fact_specter| title = The Operator | first = Michael | last = Specter | authorlink = Michael Specter | magazine = [[The New Yorker|New Yorker]] | date = February 4, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=November 8, 2017|title=Drs. Exclusive: Glyphosate Lawsuit Claims Cancer Link|url=https://www.thedoctorstv.com/episodes/drs-exclusive-glyphosate-lawsuit-claims-cancer-link|access-date=2021-03-05|website=The Doctors|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Debating the Safety of Popular Herbicide|url=https://www.thedoctorstv.com/videos/debating-the-safety-of-popular-herbicide|language=en-US|access-date=2021-03-05|date=May 18, 2015}}</ref> Smith has worked with [[organic food|organic food marketers]] and [[Alternative medicine|alternative health product promoters]]<ref>[http://www.meetup.com/RawChicagoCommunity/events/122292642/ Health Freedom Expo – See GMO expert Jeffrey Smith], Health Freedom Expo, Chicago, June 7–9, 2013.</ref> to advocate against [[genetically modified food]]. Supporters identify Smith as an influential educator on the alleged risks associated with genetically modified foods, while others point out Smith's lack of formal scientific training.<ref name="new-yorker"/> In 1998, Smith ran unsuccessfully for Congress as a candidate for the [[Natural Law Party (United States)|Natural Law Party]].<ref>{{Cite news|title=Statistics of the Congressional Election – Nov 3, 1998|url=https://history.house.gov/Institution/Election-Statistics/1998election/}}</ref> As of 2021, Smith is the executive director of the ''Institute for Responsible Technology'',<ref>{{Cite web|title=Home|url=https://www.responsibletechnology.org/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Institute for Responsible Technology|language=en-US}}</ref> and executive director of the global campaign ''Protect Nature Now''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Home|url=http://protectnaturenow.com/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Protect Nature Now|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>[http://academicsreview.org/reviewed-organizations/institute-for-responsible-technology-ifrt/ Institute for Responsible Technology & YES! Books]</ref> |
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'''Jeffrey M. Smith''' (born 1956) is an American [[Consumer advocate|consumer advocate]], <ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/monsanto-petition-tells-obama-cease-fda-ties-to-monsanto/2012/01/30/gIQAA9dZcQ_blog.html Monsanto petition tells Obama: ‘Cease FDA ties to Monsanto’], Washington Post, January 30, 2012.</ref> [[author]] and [[politician]]. He is the author of three books on genetically engineered foods <ref name ="World Cat">Unknown author and date [http://www.worldcat.org/search?qt=worldcat_org_bks&q=Jeffrey+M.+Smith&fq=dt%3Abks Jeffrey M. Smith] World Cat, accessed Dec 13, 2012</ref> and has appeared twice on [[The Dr. Oz Show]] television show.<ref>[http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/genetically-modified-foods-pt-1 Genetically Modified Pt.1], Dr. Oz Show, December 2010.</ref> In 1998 Smith ran for the U.S. Congress as a candidate for the [[Natural Law Party (United States)|Natural Law Party]].<ref name="JC Auditor"> Slockett, Tom (Nov 3, 1998) [http://www.johnson-county.com/auditor/returns/9811cand.htm November 3, 1998 General Election] Johnson County Auditor Commissioner of Elections and Voter Registration, accessed Dec 16, 2012</ref> |
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==Early life |
== Early life == |
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Jeffrey Smith grew up in [[Rye Brook, New York|Rey Brook]], [[Westchester County, New York|Westchester County]].<ref name="Reuters 2008"/><ref>{{Cite news|title=Natural Awakenings – Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess July 2018|url=https://issuu.com/wpcdesign/docs/na_july_2018|access-date=2021-03-13|website=Issuu|language=en}}</ref> He has a bachelors degree from [[Binghamton University|SUNY Binghamton]] and an MBA from [[Maharishi University of Management]] in [[Fairfield, Iowa|Fairfield]], Iowa .<ref>[http://www.mum.edu/pdf_yearbooks/1985-86.pdf Maharish University Purusha students] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811214405/http://www.mum.edu/pdf_yearbooks/1985-86.pdf |date=August 11, 2011 }}, MUM 1985–1986 Yearbook, pg. 40.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Jeffrey Smith: Former flying yogic instructor now 'most trusted source' for anti-GMO advocacy|url=https://geneticliteracyproject.org/glp-facts/jeffrey-m-smith/|access-date=2021-03-13|website=Genetic Literacy Project|language=en-US}}</ref> |
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Smith is a native of New York. <ref name="Reuters 2008"/> He graduated with an MBA from [[Maharishi University of Management|Maharishi International University]] in 1986 where he attended a "Purusha course" in 1983.<ref>[http://www.mum.edu/pdf_yearbooks/1983.pdf Maharish's Worldwide Transcendental Meditation Movement Golden Jubilee Yearbook], Maharishi University of Management, 1983.""Day-to-day activities on the Purusha course are like a celebration. Being with 200 happy, one-pointed, and enthusiastic individuals, life is lifted to new levels of fulfillment. There is an incredible feeling of togetherness within the group......—Jeffrey Smith "</ref><ref>Unknown author (1986) [http://www.mum.edu/pdf_yearbooks/1985-86.pdf 1985-1986 Purusha Business], on pg. 40 in the MBA section, there is a photo of a man with the caption: Jeffrey Smith, MUM yearbook, 1986.</ref> |
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==Career== |
==Career== |
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===Politician=== |
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Smith was a [[Natural Law Party (United States)|Natural Law Party]] member in 1996 and participated in a [[TM-Sidhi program]] yogic flying demonstration in [[Des Moines, Iowa]].<ref>'Yogic flying,' third-party candidates promoted, Bush, Bill, The Illinois State Journal-Register (Springfield, IL), October 23, 1996.</ref> In 1998 he became the party's candidate for [[U.S. Congress]] in Iowa’s First District.<ref name="JC Auditor"/> Smith received 8 percent of the vote, losing to Republican Jim Leach.<ref>IA House Contested, Associated Press, November 2, 1998.</ref> {{quotation needed|date=December 2012}} At campaign events Smith presented charts which purported to demonstrate the effect of mass meditation and yogic flying on the crime rate in Washington, D.C..<ref>Fringe Candidate's Gimmick: `Flying' Yogis, Associated Press, October 24, 1996.</ref>{{quotation needed|date=December 2012}} |
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===Political=== |
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===Consumer advocate and author=== |
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Smith was a Natural Law Party member in 1996. In 1998 he became the party's candidate for [[U.S. Congress]] in Iowa's First District to raise awareness about GMOs.<ref name="JC Auditor">{{cite web | last = Slockett | first = Tom | date = November 3, 1998 | url = http://www.johnson-county.com/auditor/returns/9811cand.htm | title = November 3, 1998 General Election | publisher = Johnson County Auditor Commissioner of Elections and Voter Registration | access-date = December 16, 2012 | archive-date = June 2, 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080602110521/http://www.johnson-county.com/auditor/returns/9811cand.htm | url-status = dead }}</ref> Smith received less than 1% of the vote, losing to Republican [[Jim Leach]].<ref>[http://clerk.house.gov/member_info/electioninfo/1998election.pdf Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 3, 1998], House of Representatives, January 3, 1999, page 16</ref> Smith worked for several years as a marketing consultant and nonprofit marketing advisor.<ref name="Reuters 2008"/> |
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Smith worked as a marketing consultant before he became a consumer advocate.<ref name="Reuters 2008"/> From 1999 –2001 he was the vice president for marketing, communications and business development for a GMO testing laboratory called Genetic-ID. {{fact|date=December 2012}} In 1999, Smith spoke to students at the University of Iowa on the topic.<ref>Speaker warns U. Iowa students against genetic food, Standaert, Mike, The Daily Iowan (U.Iowa), April 21, 1999.</ref>{{quotation needed|date=December 2012}} In 2000, Smith authored a press release for the company Genetic-ID promoting its GMO testing services.<ref>Press Release: Genetic ID's New GMO Tests Can Save U.S. Corn Exports to Japan; Restore Exports to Europe, Smith, Jeffrey Business Wire, March 23, 2000.</ref> {{quotation needed|date=December 2012}} He has spoken about the potential effects of genetically modified foods and in 2000 opposed the appointment of [[Michael R. Taylor]] as senior advisor to the [[FDA]].<ref>Sowing dissent.(Brief Article), Coghlan, Andy, New Scientist, May 27, 2000, "critical consumer advocate, Jeffrey Smith, who campaigns against genetically modified foods".</ref><ref>INTERVIEW-GM seed case highlights need for testing, Reuters News, Diderich, Joel, May 31, 2000.</ref>{{quotation needed|date=December 2012}} As vice president of Genetics ID Smith was a member of a coalition of biotech critics who alleged that 1% of[[ Taco Bell]]'s corn shells contained a from of GMO corn only approved for animal feed. <ref> Kaufman, Marc, (Sept. 18, 2000) Modified Corn Found in Taco Shells in Tests, Biotech: Genetically engineered grain, detected in Taco Bell grocery product, is not allowed in food. FDA is investigating charges, Washington Post"Genetic Id Vice President Jeffrey Smith. He said company policy is to duplicate each test, so the taco shell sample was actually tested four times using a process called polymerase chain reaction. Each time, he said, researchers found 1% of the corn DNA to be from the unapproved corn,"</ref> |
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===Consumer activist=== |
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Smith has opposed the use of genetically modified foods since they were introduced in the 1990s.<ref name="Reuters 2008"/><ref>Unknown Author (February 25, 2011) Shoppers wary of GM foods find they're everywhere, ''USA Today,'' "Smith, an activist who has fought the expansion of genetically engineered foods since they were first introduced 15 years ago"</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Genetically altered foods a major part of our diets|url=http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/genetically-altered-foods-major-part-our-diets-flna1C9465454|access-date=2021-03-05|website=NBC News|date=February 25, 2011 |language=en}}</ref> As of 2000, Smith was the spokesperson and vice president for the accredited [[genetically modified organism]] (GMO) testing company, Genetic ID.<ref>{{cite news|last=Gersema|first=Emily|title=Farming industry, consumers leery of another biotech scare; 'Big motivator': USDAchanges how corn supplies are sampled|newspaper=Telegraph-Herald (Dubuque)|date=May 20, 2001}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Brasher|first=Phillip|title=U.S. Investigates Use of Unauthorized Biotech Corn in Taco Bell Taco Shells.(Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News)|newspaper=Tribune Business News|date=September 19, 2000}}</ref> Smith authored the books ''Seeds of Deception'' in 2003<ref>{{Cite journal|title=Seeds of Deception Author Exposes the Corrupt Science of GMOs|url=http://organicpei.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/acresusa_smith_interview.pdf|journal=ACRES U.S.A (February 2004)}}</ref> and ''Genetic Roulette'' in 2007. In 2012 Smith directed and produced ''Genetic Roulette'', a documentary film narrated by [[Lisa Oz]] and critical of genetically modified food.<ref name="Sacramento Bee">{{cite news|last=Rosenhall|first=Laura|title=Safety of genetically modified foods is debated in California|url=http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2012/10/31/173151/safety-of-genetically-modified.html|access-date=February 13, 2013|newspaper=The Sacramento Bee|date=October 31, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130128010252/http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2012/10/31/173151/safety-of-genetically-modified.html|archive-date=January 28, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> Smith is the founder and current executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, which he founded in 2003.<ref>{{cite news|title=Candidate Support Expected to Boost Non-GMO Brands.|newspaper=Health & Medicine Week|date=February 4, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=The Future of Food|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=July 3, 2004}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Genetically modified crops resistant to 2,4-D spur debate, calls for labeling|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/genetically-modified-crops-resistant-to-24-d-spur-debate-calls-for-labeling/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=www.cbsnews.com|date=April 28, 2012 |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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A variety of American organic food companies see Smith "as a champion for their interests",<ref name="Reuters 2008"/> and Smith's supporters describe him as "arguably the world's foremost expert on the topic of genetically modified foods".<ref name="ChicoNews">{{cite news | url = http://www.newsreview.com/chico/interview-with-gmo-expert/content?oid=3702536 | title = An interview with GMO expert Jeffrey M. Smith | publisher = Chico (CA) News Enterprise | date = September 15, 2011}}</ref> In contrast, others such as [[Michael Specter]], writing in ''[[The New Yorker]]'', reported that Smith was presented as a "scientist" on ''[[The Dr. Oz Show]]'' despite his lack of any scientific experience.<ref name="new-yorker"/> Bruce Chassy, a molecular biologist and food scientist, wrote to the show arguing that Smith's "only professional experience prior to taking up his crusade against biotechnology is as a ballroom-dance teacher, yogic flying instructor, and political candidate for the Maharishi cult’s natural-law party."<ref name="new-yorker"/> |
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Smith created a publishing house called Yes! Books<ref>[http://academicsreview.org/reviewed-organizations/institute-for-responsible-technology-ifrt/ Institute for Responsible Technology & YES! Books], Academics Review, November 2012.</ref> and self-published his book, ''Seeds of Deception'', in 2003 receiving a favorable review in the September issue of The Milkweed.<ref>[http://seedsofdeception.com/seeds-book-reviews/milkweed-review/ Review From The Milkweed] Reprint of book review on Smith's book web site</ref> The Organic Trade Association sponsored Smith's appearance in [[Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts]] as part of a speaking tour to promote his book.<ref>OTA Press Release (September 24, 2003 )[http://www.ota.com/news/press/119.html OTA will sponsor appearance by Jeffrey Smith] Organic Trade Association </ref> |
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==Films== |
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In 2003 Smith published his book ''Seeds of Deception'' through his publishing house Yes! Books. One reviewer described it as "a muckraker, in the laudatory tradition of landmark books such as The Jungle, One Hundred Million Guinea Pigs, Silent Spring, and Our Stolen Future".<ref>Hunter, Beatrice Trum (May 1, 2004) Genetically engineered foods: a major safety issue.(BookCorners)(Book Review), Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients</ref> |
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===Director=== |
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In 2004 Smith spoke to the [[New Straits Times]] at the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety that was held in Kuala Lumpur. <ref>John, Elizabith (February 25, 2004) `Potential threats from GM foods, Potential threats from GM foods', New Straits Times"Results of these and other studies were reported by Jeffrey Smith, author of the book Seeds of Deception, on the sidelines of the First Meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (MOP1) at the Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur"</ref> |
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* ''Hidden Dangers in Kids’ Meals'' (2008) |
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*''[[Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives]]'' (2012)<ref>Rotten Tomatoes [http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/genetic_roulette_the_gamble_of_our_lives/ Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives (2012)]</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Home|url=https://geneticroulettemovie.com/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Genetic Roulette Movie|language=en-US}}</ref> |
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*''Your Milk on Drugs-Just Say No! (2013)''<ref>{{Cite web|date=September 17, 2012|title=Presentations on the risks of GMO|url=https://www.islandssounder.com/life/presentations-on-the-risks-of-gmo/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Islands' Sounder|language=en-US}}</ref> |
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*''Secret Ingredients'' (2018)<ref>{{Cite web|title=Secret Ingredients Movie|url=https://secretingredientsmovie.com/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Secret Ingredients Movie|language=en}}</ref> |
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*''Don't Let the Gene Out of the Bottle'' (2021)<ref>{{Cite web|title=Don't Let The Gene Out of The Bottle|url=http://totalhealthmatters.co.uk/dont-let-the-gene-out-of-the-bottle/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=Total Health Matters|language=en-GB}}</ref> |
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===Featured=== |
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* ''[[The World According to Monsanto]]'' (2008)<ref>Good Reads [http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18119699-the-world-according-to-monsanto The World According to Monsanto (DVD) by Marie-Monique Robin, Jeffrey M. Smith]</ref> |
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* ''Seeds of Death: Unveiling the Lies of GMOs'' (2012)<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vince|date=June 14, 2013|title=Seeds Of Death – Unveiling the Lies of GMOs (Documentary)|url=https://www.permaculturenews.org/2013/06/14/seeds-of-death-unveiling-the-lies-of-gmos-documentary/|access-date=2021-03-05|website=The Permaculture Research Institute|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>Rotten Tomatoes [http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/seeds_of_death_unveiling_the_lies_of_gmos/ Seeds of Death: Unveiling the Lies of GMOs (2012)]</ref> |
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* ''[[Scientists Under Attack: Genetic Engineering in the Magnetic Field of Money]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://responsibletechnology.org/resources/scientists-under-attack/|title=Scientists Under Attack|access-date=September 19, 2016|archive-date=June 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625105137/http://responsibletechnology.org/resources/scientists-under-attack|url-status=dead}}</ref> (2010) |
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==Written work== |
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===Author=== |
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* ''Hard to Swallow: The Dangers of GE Food—An International Expose'' (2003) |
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In 2007 he published his book ''Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods''. According to a book review in [[Alternatives Journal]]: "Smith, a science writer and author"... "presents his meticulous research on the documented health risks of genetically modified (GM) foods". <ref>Smith, Mike (August 1, 2009) Modified, Misled and Misguided.(Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods; Genetically Modified Diplomacy: The Global Politics of Agricultural Biotechnology and the Environment)(Book review), ''Alternatives Journal''</ref> The book also received favorable reviews in Alternative Medicine Review <ref>Malterre, Thomas (March 1, 2008) |
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* ''Seeds of Deception'' (2003) |
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Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods, ''Alternative Medicine Review''</ref> the [[Townsend Letter]] <ref> Ferrie, Helk (June 1, 2008) Understanding the Impact of Genetically Modified Foods.(Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods)(Book review), ''Townsend Letter'' </ref> and the CCPA Monitor <ref> Ferrie, Helke (May 1, 2008) GENETIC ROULETTE: Book reveals health risks of genetically modified foods, ''CCPA Monitor'' "somebody eminently suited to discuss the entire field has done the job for me with breathtaking thoroughness and wonderful clarity!"</ref> |
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* ''Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods'' (2007) |
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In 2008 he received a $24,000 annual salary.{{fact|date=December 2012}} Smith's activist activities are supported through his speakers fees, book and DVD sales and sponsor donations.<ref name="Reuters 2008">[http://uk.reuters.com/article/2008/03/07/environment-biotech-crops-activist-dc-idUKN0750723920080307 U.S. activist circles globe to fight biotech crops], Gillam, Carey, Reuters UK, March 7, 2008.</ref> |
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Smith, and the Institute for Responsible Technology, played a role in promoting [[Proposition 37]] the 2012 California ballot initiative seeking to label products containing GMO foods.<ref>[http://www.kansascity.com/2012/10/31/3893907/safety-of-genetically-modified.html Safety of genetically modified foods is debated in California], Kansas City Star, October 31, 2012.</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Ryan Jaslow|title=Genetically modified crops resistant to 2,4-D spur debate, calls for labeling|publisher=[[CBS News]]|date=2012-02-27|quote=The proliferation of GMOs in the country's food supply and environment is of primary importance to many, including Jeffrey Smith of The Institute for Responsible Technology.|url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1181580/}}</ref> In 2012 Smith appeared on the Dr. Oz TV show, on [[Thom Hartman]]'s Conversations With Great Minds show <ref>Unknown author [http://ssheltonimages.com/THOM_HARTMANN_JEFFREY_SMITH-1.html Jeffrey Smith GMOs - Seeds of Deception] Conversations With Great Minds, accessed 12/14/12</ref> and Natural News TV. <ref>HealthRanger (Jan 2012) [http://tv.naturalnews.com/v.asp?v=392D72A0CD569C34A603BB4883029B51 Jeffrey Smith GMO update, Monsanto, Roundup, Bayer, DuPont and more] Natural News TV, accessed 12/15/12 </ref> Smith founded the Institute for Social Responsibility (ISR), a tax-exempt, non-profit in 2012.<ref>[http://www.guidestar.org/organizations/90-0607450/institute-responsible-technology.aspx Institute for Responsible Technology profile], GuideStar, accessed September 2012.</ref> |
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According to an Iowa government web site Smith is the registering agent for the Institute for Responsible Technology which is the [[Doing business as|DBA]] for the legal entity called: The Coordinating Council.<ref>[http://sos.iowa.gov/search/business/ Coordinating Council Iowa business registration # 315479], Iowa Secretary of State Business Registrations, accessed October 2012.</ref> Smith is also a member and employee of The Campaign to Label Genetically Modified Foods political ballot initiative for the state of Washington, USA.<ref>[http://npanw.org/uploads/NPA_NW_Donation_WA_I-522.pdf Natural Products Association Northwest Donates to Washington State GMO Labeling Initiative], Natural Products Association of the Northwest press release, October 12, 2012.</ref><ref>[http://dor.wa.gov Full Spectrum Health business tax ID #601597337], Washington State Department of Revenue, January 10, 1995.</ref> |
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Smith has been a consumer activist since the inception of genetically modified foods 15 years ago.<ref>Unknown Author (Feb 25, 2011)Shoppers wary of GM foods find they're everywhere, ''USA Today,'' "Smith, an activist who has fought the expansion of genetically engineered foods since they were first introduced 15 years ago"</ref> He has spoken to groups around the world including Brazil, Poland and the USA on the potential dangers of Genetically Modified Organisms in food.<ref name="Reuters 2008"/> According to a 2007 article in Reuters, a group of organic food companies in the U.S. see him as a someone who can champion their interests.<ref name="Reuters 2008"/> He serves on the Genetic Engineering Committee of the [[Sierra Club]]. {{fact|date=December 2012}} Smith is founder of the Campaign for Healthier Eating in America. <ref> (Sept 20, 2007) Third annual Renewable Energy Fest returns to Kempton, Reading Eagle (Reading, PA)</ref> |
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==Reception== |
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A 2008 article in Reuters, reported that Smith has been" discounted as misinformed and misleading by supporters of biotechnology"<ref name="Reuters 2008"/> while a 2011 article in the [[Chico News & Review]] characterized Smith as "one of the world's foremost expert"s on the topic of genetically modified foods.<ref name "ChicoNews"/><ref> Burlison, Dani (JUly 20, 2012) Hell No, GMO, Pacific Sun"the annual GMO SYMPOSIUM brings experts like Jeffery Smith,"</ref> |
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Several academics have launched campaigns<ref>[http://academicsreview.org/reviewed-individuals/jeffrey-smith/ Jeffrey Smith Profile], Academics Review website, accessed September 2012.</ref> to dissect and review Jeffrey Smith’s claims and criticize organizations and media outlets who characterize or present Smith as an "expert" source<ref name "ChicoNews">[http://www.newsreview.com/chico/interview-with-gmo-expert/content?oid=3702536 An interview with GMO expert Jeffrey M. Smith], Chico (CA) News Enterprise, September 15, 2011.</ref> on issues of biotechnology. |
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==Personal life== |
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[[File:Jeffrey Smith swing.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Smith dancing on stage]] |
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Smith is "professional dance instructor and choreographer" and taught a dance workshop at [[University of Iowa]] as "Swingsmith". He and his wife are the founding directors of a dance troupe called Swingphoria.<ref>Unknown author (Feb 2002) [http://www.public.iastate.edu/~mehl/archives/ballroom-dance/announcement.02feb Ballroom Dance Announcement] Iowa State Education archives, accessed 12/14/12</ref><ref>U. Iowa: Is swing dancing coming or going? Depends who you ask, Reinstein, Leah, The daily Iowan (U. Iowa), January 26, 1999.</ref>{{quotation needed|date=December 2012}} |
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In 2002 Smith filed [[Chapter 7, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 7 personal bankruptcy]] in Iowa Federal Court.<ref>Public Notice filed Jeffrey M. Smith of Fairfield, IA, Case number 02-03003-rjh7,United States Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Iowa, June 3, 2002.</ref>{{quotation needed|date=December 2012}} He resides in Fairfield, IA with his wife.{{cn|date=December 2012}} |
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==Bibliography== |
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===Books=== |
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* Smith, Jeffrey M. (1981) ''Preventing legal malpractice'', West Pub. Co, St. Paul, Minn. <ref name ="World Cat"/> |
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* {{Cite book |last=Smith |first=Jeffrey M |title= Seeds of Deception: Exposing Industry and Government Lies About the Safety of the Genetically Engineered Foods You're Eating|publisher=YES! Books|location=Fairfield, IA |year=2003 |isbn= 9780972966504}} |
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* {{Cite book |last=Smith |first=Jeffrey M |title= Hard to Swallow: The Dangers of GE Food – An International Expose |publisher=Craig Potton |location=Nelson, New Zealand |year=2003 |isbn= 978-1877333118}} |
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* {{Cite book |last=Smith |first=Jeffrey M |title= Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods |publisher=YES! Books |location=Fairfield, IA |year=2007 |isbn= 978-0972966528 }} |
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===Filmography=== |
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* Smith, Jeffrey M. (2008) Dangers in Kids' Meals and Your Milk on Drugs —Just Say No! a DVD, Institute for Responsible Technology, Fairfield, ASIN= 0972966560 |
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* Smith, Jeffrey M. (2012) Genetic Roulette the Movie, Institute for Responsible Technology, Fairfield, IA, ASIN= B0096DP4CG |
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==References== |
==References== |
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{{Reflist |
{{Reflist}} |
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==External links== |
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* [http://www.responsibletechnology.org/about Jeffrey Smith bio at the Institute for Responsible Technology] |
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* [http://seedsofdeception.com/about/ Jeffrey Smith bio at the Seeds of Deception] |
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{{Authority control}} |
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{{Persondata |
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| NAME = Smith, Jeffrey M. |
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| ALTERNATIVE NAMES = Smith, Jeff |
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| SHORT DESCRIPTION = |
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| DATE OF BIRTH = 1956 |
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| PLACE OF BIRTH = [[Ottumwa]] , [[Iowa]], United States |
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| DATE OF DEATH = |
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| PLACE OF DEATH = |
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}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Smith, Jeffrey M}} |
{{DEFAULTSORT:Smith, Jeffrey M}} |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:1958 births]] |
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[[Category:Living people]] |
[[Category:Living people]] |
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[[Category:American activists]] |
[[Category:American activists]] |
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[[Category:Anti-GMO activists]] |
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[[Category:Consumer rights activists]] |
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[[Category:Iowa politicians]] |
[[Category:Iowa politicians]] |
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[[Category:People from Fairfield, Iowa]] |
[[Category:People from Fairfield, Iowa]] |
Latest revision as of 00:40, 14 November 2023
Jeffrey M. Smith | |
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Born | 1958 (age 65–66) New York, U.S.[1] |
Nationality | American |
Education | Maharishi University of Management |
Occupation(s) | Consumer advocate, author |
Website | www |
Jeffrey M. Smith (born 1958) is an American consumer activist,[2] self-published author, and former politician.[3][4] He is the author of two books on genetically engineered foods, Seeds of Deception: Exposing Industry and Government Lies about the Safety of the Genetically Engineered Foods You’re Eating, and Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives, which he made into a film in 2012. He has appeared twice on each of the shows -The Dr. Oz Show and The Doctors.[5][6][7] Smith has worked with organic food marketers and alternative health product promoters[8] to advocate against genetically modified food. Supporters identify Smith as an influential educator on the alleged risks associated with genetically modified foods, while others point out Smith's lack of formal scientific training.[5] In 1998, Smith ran unsuccessfully for Congress as a candidate for the Natural Law Party.[9] As of 2021, Smith is the executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology,[10] and executive director of the global campaign Protect Nature Now.[11][12]
Early life
Jeffrey Smith grew up in Rey Brook, Westchester County.[1][13] He has a bachelors degree from SUNY Binghamton and an MBA from Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, Iowa .[14][15]
Career
Political
Smith was a Natural Law Party member in 1996. In 1998 he became the party's candidate for U.S. Congress in Iowa's First District to raise awareness about GMOs.[16] Smith received less than 1% of the vote, losing to Republican Jim Leach.[17] Smith worked for several years as a marketing consultant and nonprofit marketing advisor.[1]
Consumer activist
Smith has opposed the use of genetically modified foods since they were introduced in the 1990s.[1][18][19] As of 2000, Smith was the spokesperson and vice president for the accredited genetically modified organism (GMO) testing company, Genetic ID.[20][21] Smith authored the books Seeds of Deception in 2003[22] and Genetic Roulette in 2007. In 2012 Smith directed and produced Genetic Roulette, a documentary film narrated by Lisa Oz and critical of genetically modified food.[23] Smith is the founder and current executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, which he founded in 2003.[24][25][26]
A variety of American organic food companies see Smith "as a champion for their interests",[1] and Smith's supporters describe him as "arguably the world's foremost expert on the topic of genetically modified foods".[27] In contrast, others such as Michael Specter, writing in The New Yorker, reported that Smith was presented as a "scientist" on The Dr. Oz Show despite his lack of any scientific experience.[5] Bruce Chassy, a molecular biologist and food scientist, wrote to the show arguing that Smith's "only professional experience prior to taking up his crusade against biotechnology is as a ballroom-dance teacher, yogic flying instructor, and political candidate for the Maharishi cult’s natural-law party."[5]
Films
Director
- Hidden Dangers in Kids’ Meals (2008)
- Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives (2012)[28][29]
- Your Milk on Drugs-Just Say No! (2013)[30]
- Secret Ingredients (2018)[31]
- Don't Let the Gene Out of the Bottle (2021)[32]
Featured
- The World According to Monsanto (2008)[33]
- Seeds of Death: Unveiling the Lies of GMOs (2012)[34][35]
- Scientists Under Attack: Genetic Engineering in the Magnetic Field of Money[36] (2010)
Written work
Author
- Hard to Swallow: The Dangers of GE Food—An International Expose (2003)
- Seeds of Deception (2003)
- Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods (2007)
References
- ^ a b c d e Gillam, Carey (March 7, 2008). "U.S. activist circles globe to fight biotech crops". Reuters UK.
- ^ (April 27, 2012) New GMO crops proposed, consumers want labeling, CBS News, accessed December 16, 2012
- ^ "Coming to Tampa – Jeffrey M. Smith, International best-selling author and filmmaker; Executive Director, Institute of Responsible Technology and leading spokesperson on the health dangers of GMOs". Tampa, FL Patch. December 23, 2013. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ "Jeffrey M. Smith Biography". Institute for Responsible Technology. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ a b c d Specter, Michael (February 4, 2013). "The Operator". New Yorker.
- ^ "Drs. Exclusive: Glyphosate Lawsuit Claims Cancer Link". The Doctors. November 8, 2017. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ Debating the Safety of Popular Herbicide, May 18, 2015, retrieved March 5, 2021
- ^ Health Freedom Expo – See GMO expert Jeffrey Smith, Health Freedom Expo, Chicago, June 7–9, 2013.
- ^ "Statistics of the Congressional Election – Nov 3, 1998".
- ^ "Home". Institute for Responsible Technology. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ "Home". Protect Nature Now. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ Institute for Responsible Technology & YES! Books
- ^ "Natural Awakenings – Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess July 2018". Issuu. Retrieved March 13, 2021.
- ^ Maharish University Purusha students Archived August 11, 2011, at the Wayback Machine, MUM 1985–1986 Yearbook, pg. 40.
- ^ "Jeffrey Smith: Former flying yogic instructor now 'most trusted source' for anti-GMO advocacy". Genetic Literacy Project. Retrieved March 13, 2021.
- ^ Slockett, Tom (November 3, 1998). "November 3, 1998 General Election". Johnson County Auditor Commissioner of Elections and Voter Registration. Archived from the original on June 2, 2008. Retrieved December 16, 2012.
- ^ Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 3, 1998, House of Representatives, January 3, 1999, page 16
- ^ Unknown Author (February 25, 2011) Shoppers wary of GM foods find they're everywhere, USA Today, "Smith, an activist who has fought the expansion of genetically engineered foods since they were first introduced 15 years ago"
- ^ "Genetically altered foods a major part of our diets". NBC News. February 25, 2011. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ Gersema, Emily (May 20, 2001). "Farming industry, consumers leery of another biotech scare; 'Big motivator': USDAchanges how corn supplies are sampled". Telegraph-Herald (Dubuque).
- ^ Brasher, Phillip (September 19, 2000). "U.S. Investigates Use of Unauthorized Biotech Corn in Taco Bell Taco Shells.(Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News)". Tribune Business News.
- ^ "Seeds of Deception Author Exposes the Corrupt Science of GMOs" (PDF). ACRES U.S.A (February 2004).
- ^ Rosenhall, Laura (October 31, 2012). "Safety of genetically modified foods is debated in California". The Sacramento Bee. Archived from the original on January 28, 2013. Retrieved February 13, 2013.
- ^ "Candidate Support Expected to Boost Non-GMO Brands". Health & Medicine Week. February 4, 2008.
- ^ "The Future of Food". The Irish Times. July 3, 2004.
- ^ "Genetically modified crops resistant to 2,4-D spur debate, calls for labeling". www.cbsnews.com. April 28, 2012. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ "An interview with GMO expert Jeffrey M. Smith". Chico (CA) News Enterprise. September 15, 2011.
- ^ Rotten Tomatoes Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives (2012)
- ^ "Home". Genetic Roulette Movie. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ "Presentations on the risks of GMO". Islands' Sounder. September 17, 2012. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ "Secret Ingredients Movie". Secret Ingredients Movie. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ "Don't Let The Gene Out of The Bottle". Total Health Matters. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ Good Reads The World According to Monsanto (DVD) by Marie-Monique Robin, Jeffrey M. Smith
- ^ Vince (June 14, 2013). "Seeds Of Death – Unveiling the Lies of GMOs (Documentary)". The Permaculture Research Institute. Retrieved March 5, 2021.
- ^ Rotten Tomatoes Seeds of Death: Unveiling the Lies of GMOs (2012)
- ^ "Scientists Under Attack". Archived from the original on June 25, 2016. Retrieved September 19, 2016.