GMO's: Special Report

GMO's: Special Report

Have you heard the talk lately about genetically modified food? Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s) have been in our food supply for awhile, but they’ve recently gained more attention because of California’s Proposition 37. 

Other states have tried without success to pass GMO food labeling laws, but this is the first time the issue will be decided directly by the voters. Federal support is uncertain, so we are sure to hear more about it in the future.

What does this mean to the average consumer? It depends on the types of foods we eat. According to some estimates, 40-70% of processed foods contain GMO’s so if you’re eating processed foods (or animals which are fed GMO’s), more than likely you’ve consumed GMO’s in some form or another.

Currently, the FDA doesn’t require GMO’s to be tested as safe for consumption, so some people argue that we are just a part of a big experiment. In addition, some research findings have many physicians and scientists concerned: they claim that GMO’s present a “serious health risk” and assert that GMO’s are associated with unhealthy changes to the immune system (including allergies) as well as dysfunction with fertility and certain organs in the body.

If you prefer to avoid GMO’s in your diet, I suggest to read food labels and choose organic varieties of foods that commonly contain GMO’s (as of November 1, 2011, this includes alfalfa, canola, corn, cotton, papaya, soy, sugar beets, zucchini & yellow summer squash). Also, keep these foods in mind when eating out, stay current on the foods which are genetically modified, and if you feel strongly about GMO food labeling (and you live in California), remember to vote!

*Update: despite the failure of Prop 37, the debate rages on. Please refer to my Resources page for a list of foods that are recommended to buy organic, and how to avoid GMO's in your diet. For more support, call or email me for a visit (Skype is an option for those not in the San Diego area).

References: American Academy of Environmental Medicine, Center for Food Safety, Institute for Responsible Technology