*** Why You Should Say 'NO' to GMO Foods

What are GMO’s?

Also known by many as Frankenstein Foods...The term GMO’s (genetically modified organisms) is most commonly used to reference crop plants which have been modified through the gene-splicing techniques of biotechnology. This controversial science allows DNA from one species to be injected into another species in the confines of a laboratory, creating new combinations of plant, animal, bacteria, and viral genes that do not occur in Nature.

Are GMO’s Considered Safe?

Depends who you ask! All across the globe, environmental activists, public interest groups, and socially-conscious consumers find the lack of independent scientific research on the impact of genetically modified foods to be cause for concern. In Japan, Australia, and all of the countries in the European Union, there are considerable restrictions or outright bans on the production of GMO’s because they are not considered proven safe. However, here in the United States, such foods are regulated under the FDA’s Plant Biotechnology for Food and Feed and Genetically Engineered Animals Policies. The FDA’s allowance of commercial production of GMO’s is based upon studies conducted by the companies who created them and profit from their sale, similar to the system for new drug approvals. GMO's are now banned in many European countries!

How do I know if the products I choose contain GMO’s?

There is currently no government-mandated labeling law to help consumers make an educated choice. In response to consumer concern, and with the initial goal of standardized labeling in mind, the Non-GMO Project was formed by a group of committed independent natural foods retailers. As the Project developed, it became clear that in order for that goal to be possible, a third party verification program was necessary, which would identify products compliant with a uniform, consensus-based definition of Non-GMO. With the help of technical consultants, Food Chain Global Advisors, and a dedicated group of industry leaders, the Non-GMO Project has successfully created a collaborative Non-GMO verification program. Working at every level of the supply chain, all the way back to the seeds, the Project’s role is to inspire and ensure viable Non-GMO alternatives long into the future.

What does “Non-GMO Project Verified” mean?

Products deemed compliant with the Non-GMO Project Standard are eligible to bear the Non-GMO Project Seal. This verification mark indicates that a product has been produced in accordance with the best practices of the Non-GMO Project Standard, including the testing of risk ingredients. The Non-GMO Project Standard is a consensus-based document that has been crafted with the insight and expertise of dozens of individuals, reflecting a dynamic range of perspectives. It’s important to keep in mind that this is a scientific, process-based program, requiring rigorous traceability practices to be followed to ensure GMO avoidance in products.

How Can I Avoid GMO's?

So to be safe, look for the 'Non-GMO' label on prepared foods and buy organic produce to avoid GMO's. When will this change? When enough people demand clear labeling of GMO's on all food products!

For more information on why to avoid GMO's, read Jeffrey Smith's article "Just Say No to GMO's." http://www.transformyourhealth.com/webnewsletters/nov10/justsaynotogmoar...