October is Non GMO month, and here at Feel Rite Fresh Markets, we value bringing Non GMO and organic foods to our customers here in Western New York. As a certified retailer, we provide quality products that are clearly labelled with the Non GMO Project Verified Seal. Not every retailer makes it this easy, so here’s what you need to know about GMOs and how to shop for safe food products.
What is a “GMO”?
GMO is an acronym for genetically modified organism. That is, an organism (typically a plant), which is modified at the genetic level, using recombinant DNA methods, gene modification or transgenic technology. The Non GMO Project website explains, “This relatively new science creates unstable combinations of plant, animal, bacterial and viral genes that do not occur in nature or through traditional crossbreeding methods.”
These alterations are often made to modify the DNA of plants to make them resistant to specific pesticides, or even to remove enzymes that are responsible for the natural discoloration or rotting process of the plant. These changes make the crop easier and cheaper to grow, creating more profit for the food industry. The top crop offenders? Alfalfa, canola, corn, cotton, papaya, soy, sugar beet, and zucchini. Corn, canola and soy are ingredients in many of our processed and packaged foods, so don’t think that GMOs are just limited to fresh produce. Check those labels!
Are GMOs considered safe?
It’s uncertain. Research on the effect of genetically modified organisms on human health is limited. Even more, most studies that claim their safety are funded by biotechnology companies. The same companies profit from the sales of these crops. What we do know? Most developed nations consider GMO crops and products unsafe and have policies in place to restrict the sale of GMOs in their country. The United States government, however, is still unconvinced.
How do I know if a food contains GMOs?
Although our government has not mandated a policy to label GMO products, a non-profit called the Non GMO Project has created a third-party verification process. In addition to this seal of approval, all USDA Certified Organic Products are GMO free. Look out for these two labels to know you are getting foods you can trust!
This Non GMO month, challenge yourself to think about the safety of the foods you are putting in you and your family’s bodies. After all, you are what you eat!
More Info About GMOs
For more information about GMOs, and the Non GMO project visit: http://livingnongmo.org/.
Download the free Non GMO Project shopping guide app, which allows you to scan barcodes to see if your products are GMO free!
Apple IOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/non-gmo-project-shopping-guide/id359782606?mt=8#
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.nongmoproject.ngpshoppingguide&hl=en