PALO ALTO, CA - December 20, 2006 - Taking a stand against the environmental destruction caused by genetically engineered foods, Bon Appetit Management Company has signed on to the Genetic Engineering Policy Alliance (www.gepolicyalliance.org), a network of organizations and individuals promoting precautionary policies on genetically engineered food and agriculture.

Bon Appetit sees the unmediated proliferation of GE crops as potentially devastating to the environment and to non-GE farms, especially as little is known about the long-term effects of genetic engineering. In signing on to the Alliance, Bon Appetit pledges its support to the principles outlined in the Policy Platform and adds to its list of socially responsible business initiatives.

According to the GE Policy Alliance, more than 100 million acres of genetically engineered crops have been planted in the U.S. since 1996. It is estimated that GE ingredients are present in 70 percent of all processed food in the U.S. These numbers have unfortunate legal and financial implications for non-GE farmers whose crops may become contaminated by the virtually uncontrollable dissemination of GE crops. Additionally, adverse environmental effects from the use of GE in agriculture include increased use of toxic chemicals and pesticides that threaten non-target animal and plant species, including heirloom plant varieties.

Members of the GE Policy Alliance believe it is essential and timely to enact California policy that protects farmers, consumers and the environment from certain risks inherent in GE agriculture. The Policy Platform will serve as a resource to educate policymakers and the general public about the risks associated with genetic engineering in food crops.

"It is irresponsible to meddle with the food system without fully understanding the consequences to our planet and our health. As a socially-conscious food company, we see it as our duty to take a stand," said Maisie Greenawalt, director of communications and strategic initiatives for Bon Appetit. "Joining the GE Policy Alliance shows our concern for the Earth and for the local farmers with whom we work. We urge other large companies to follow our example."

Bon Appetit Management Company's sustainable sourcing initiatives include buying from local and organic producers, reducing antibiotic use on meat farms, and purchasing cage-free shell eggs. In its supportive role for the GE Policy Alliance, Bon Appetit demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability and personal health.

About Bon Appetit Management Company

Bon Appetit Management Co. is an onsite restaurant company offering full food service management to corporations, universities and specialty venues. Bon Appetit is committed to sourcing local, sustainable food supplies for all cafes throughout the country. A pioneer in environmentally sound sourcing policies, Bon Appetit has developed programs with Environmental Defense, the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch, and other leading conservation organizations. Based in Palo Alto, CA. Bon Appetit has more than 400 cafes in 29 states, including Oracle Corporation, American University and the Getty Center. www.bamco.com.

Bon Appetit Management Company

Bon Appetit Management Company

Bon Appetit Management Co. is an onsite restaurant company offering full food service management to corporations, universities and specialty venues. Bon Appetit is committed to sourcing local, sustainable food supplies for all cafes throughout the country. A pioneer in environmentally sound sourcing policies, Bon Appetit has developed programs with Environmental Defense, the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch, and other leading conservation organizations. Based in Palo Alto, CA. Bon Appetit has more than 400 cafes in 30 states, including Oracle Corporation, American University and the Getty Center.

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