Genetically Modified Foods, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), are foods derived from organisms whose genetic material (DNA) has been modified in a way that does not occur naturally, usually through the introduction of a gene from a different organism. Most genetically modified (GM) crops have been developed to improve yield through increased resistance to plant diseases or increased tolerance of herbicides.
Up to 85% of corn is genetically engineered; plus 91% of soybeans and 88% of cotton (cottonseed oil is often used in food products). It’s estimated that upwards of 70% of processed foods in supermarkets ranging from soda to crackers and soup to condiments, contains genetically engineered ingredients, according to the Center for Food Safety. Unfortunately, it’s not only processed foods. Hawaiian papaya, certain varieties of summer squash and corn on the cob are all being genetically modified. The FDA is now even considering genetically-altered salmon, which would be bred with DNA that would make it grow to twice the size as wild salmon.
The problem with this is most GM crops are engineered to be “herbicide tolerant.” Monsanto, a major American agricultural company, sells Roundup-ready crops (crops designed to survive applications of Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide). Over the past 12 years, farmers have sprayed an extra 383 million pound of herbicide on GM crops. This has created “superweeds” resistant to herbicides. Not only does this create environmental harm, but GM foods contain high toxic herbicide residue. According to the Institute for Responsible Technology, Roundup is linked to sterility, hormone disruption, birth defects and cancer. Numerous studies indicate these foods pose serious risks to humans, animals, wildlife and the environment. Human health effects also include higher risks of toxicity, allergies, and antibiotic resistance immune-suppression.
Recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) is a genetically-engineered artificial hormone injected into dairy cows to increase milk production. Milk from these cows contains an increased amount of the hormone IGF-1, which may speed the growth of breast and prostate cancer.
Many scientists claim that genetically modified foods cause no harm to our health. However, there’re just as many opponents that counter these claims. The problem is there hasn’t been enough research done. This being the case, 30 countries including Japan, France, Greece and Australia, have banned or severely restrict the use of GM crops. The U.S. has not.
GM foods don’t appear to be going away. So what can Americans do? For starters we can buy foods that are USDA certified organic, shop at a local farmers market, try to stay away from processed food and look for labels that say “non-GMO” or “GMO free”. If you’re going to eat meat, it’s best to eat grass fed meat (to avoid GM feed) and stay away from farm-raised fish. Try to avoid: soybeans, canola, cottonseed and dairy. For further involvement, you can sign the Organic Consumers Association’s HYPERLINK “http://organicconsumers.org/monsanto/action.cfm” Truth-In-Labeling Petition which demands all GMO foods are required to be labeled accordingly.
We have a right to know what we’re eating. It would be so much easier if food companies say their product contains “GM” ingredients, or this product is “GM.” That way everyone could make their own conscious decision if they want to eat the product or not.
