The World of GMOs
Posted on July 18th, 2008 by joshua
Many experts estimate that about 70 percent of the foods in grocery stores in the U.S. and Canada contain genetically engineered ingredients, most commonly referred to as genetically modified organisms (GMOs). A GMO is any organism in which the genetic material has been altered or shuffled around in a way that does not occur naturally.This technology allows individual genes to be transferred from one organism to another. GMOs on the market have been given genetic traits to provide protection from pests and diseases or resistance to pesticides, or to improve the quality of the crop. The most prevalent GM crops were created to resist harsh chemicals. Farmers who use GM crops can spray their fields to kill everything growing in the area except the food crop. Imagine what is being killed in our bodies when we eat these foods.
The most common genetically engineered crops in the United States, which is the largest grower of GM crops in the world, are canola, corn, soy and cotton. Genetically engineered soy, corn and canola are used in many processed foods, but the government does not require labeling of these foods and regards these foods as generally safe. During the past decade, food safety experts have identified several potential problems with genetically engineered food crops, according to reports from the Union of Concerned Scientists. These problems include negative health and environmental effects. To avoid these foods, be a food detective. Look for labels that say “GMO free” or organic.
To learn more about the GMO industry, check out this French documentary called "The World According to Monsanto" about the agricultural company Monsanto and genetically engineered foods they create. Check it out now, it may not be available to view for much longer. The topic of GMOs is still very controversial and this movie exposes information about this mammoth industry.
The video is a real eye-opener. Everyone should take the time to view all 10 parts of this documentary. The future of food is at stake.