Why Are GMO Foods Such A Big Deal?

Survival Scout – by Matt Redhawk

Hungry?

Whether you choose to eat a piece of fruit or drink a glass of milk, there’s a good chance you’re consuming food that has been genetically modified.

You may have heard the term “GMO” tossed around on talk radio or news channels. It means “Genetically Modified Organism.” GMOs are the result of scientifically altering the genes of the DNA of one species with the DNA of another. Various genes could come from bacteria, viruses, insects, animals or even humans.  

Farmers have always tried to improve their crops. However, GMOs are different in that they involve genetic engineering and adding genes that would not occur in nature.

There is growing concern about how GMOs may affect your health. Some believe that GMOs weaken a body’s natural immune system. Potential health issues may include allergies, resistance to antibiotics, or increased cancer risk.

So What’s the Skinny on GMOs?

Some people believe experimenting on food may cause far-reaching health issues. Others believe GMOs are the answer to world hunger.

It’s difficult to avoid GMOs if you’re shopping at your local grocery store. Common ingredients like corn starch and soy protein are usually sourced from genetically modified crops. Other common GMOs include: papayas, milk, corn on the cob, yellow crookneck squash and zucchini, soy and sugar beets. And recently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved two varieties of genetically engineered non-browning apples to be sold in the United States.

Not everyone thinks GMOs are safe to eat, especially over the long term. European countries have approved very few genetically engineered crops and have mandatory labeling in place for products that contain GMOs. Some scientists fear that GMOs could increase allergies. Others point out that genetic engineering may have environmental consequences, too.

For instance, GMO crops have caused the emergence of “super weeds” and “super bugs” which can only be killed with toxic poison. We don’t know the long-term impact of GMOs. Once engineers release them into the environment, they can’t remove them.

Can You Do Anything About It?

Although GMOs are already in a great many items sitting on your grocery store shelves, you can take steps to limit them in your own pantry.

Here are five ways to do it:

1. Think fresh!  Although some produce is genetically engineered, most GMOs are found in processed foods containing soy, corn, canola oil, non-cane sugars and cottonseed oil.  Make your body happy and healthy by eating more fresh vegetables and whole, unprocessed foods.
2. Buy smart. Pay attention to what you buy. Look for brands and foods that proudly carry the non-GMO label. Also check out your local farmers’ markets. They usually carry produce from smaller farms that work hard to grow food without GMOs.
3. Download the Non-GMO Shopping Guide from the Institute for Responsible Technology for a list of brands that are GMO-free.
4. Ask if it’s a GMO food. You can call the manufacturers of your favorite foods and ask if they contain genetically engineered products. Ask them to join the Non-GMO Project.
5. Grow your own food with non-GMO seeds! I’m sure you suspected I’d mention this very important option. When you grow your own food with non-GMO seeds, you’re guaranteed a safe and healthy crop of wholesome goodness!

Avoiding GMOs doesn’t have to be complicated. Taking time to read labels and buy organic will go a long way toward creating the type of diet you and your family will love.

Now that we’re close to gardening season, you have even more reason to start fresh this year by growing your own delicious crops of fruits, vegetables and herbs!

Don’t delay in creating your own safe, non-GMO food supply. It’s the perfect time to check out our collection of non-GMO seeds or order one of our non-GMO emergency food supply totes.

Stay healthy!

In Liberty,

Matt Redhawk

Owner, My Patriot Supply