You’re hearing everywhere about GMOs and Non-GMOs. You might think these are an additive or chemical that you want to avoid, but it’s far more complicated than that and far more concerning. GMO stands for genetically modified organism and it means that modifications have been made in the genetic composition of a plant or animal. Yes, that means what you think: Scientists have changed the genes inside the plant or animal that tell it what to be and how to grow.
This was first proposed – and this remains the biggest argument for GMOs – as the scientific breakthrough that would end world hunger. The claims were that these GMO plants would produce higher yield crops, but time and time again this has been shown not to be the case. The UN released a report last year driving home the point that when it comes to feeding the world’s population, we do not have a supply problem, rather, we have a distribution problem. Meanwhile, we are ever increasing the amount of pesticides, insecticides and herbicides pumped into our food supply, soil and environment as GMO crops increase in prevalence.
In 2009, the American Academy of Environmental Medicine released a statement that several studies had shown serious health risks associated with the consumption of GMOs by animals, including infertility, accelerated aging, impaired regulation of insulin and cholesterol, and changes in organ health. There have not been any long-term studies on the safety of consuming GMOs in humans; instead, they chose to make the general public guinea pigs without their consent and quietly introduced GMOs into the food supply in 1996.
While the fight continues to implement labeling laws, you can buy products that are non-GMO to protect your health and the environment. Buying organic is the best way to avoid GMOs as any food labeled “100% organic,” by law, cannot contain GMOs. If you’re still unsure, look for the Non-GMO Project Verified seal, meaning the product has voluntarily sought third party testing to ensure their product is Non-GMO.
Choosing non-GMO foods and products is about taking control of your health and safety while protecting the future of food and agriculture for the world. As they say, you are what you eat!
Tip: the best place to buy non-GMO foods, snacks & supplements is at Vitacost.com!