GMO If a product contains ingredients that have been genetically modified, does the consumer have a right to know about it? According to the fast-growing GMO labeling movement, that answer is yes. Shoppers across the nation are standing up for the freedom to ditch genetically altered foods in favor of non GMO alternatives. Passionate members of the GMO labeling movement are working hard to restore power to the consumer and kick corrupt agribusiness to the curb.

What GMO Means

GMO stands for genetically modified organism. If a product is labeled GMO it means that its genetic material has been modified. Supporters often refer to GMOs as “Genetically engineered” or “genetically improved”. Products containing corn, wheat and soy are almost certainly made with GMOs, unless labeled otherwise. While GMOs provide higher crop yields, the dietary benefits of these organisms is questionable. Many tout the nutritious qualities of GMOs, but other wary consumers question the true merits of GMOs and whether these items are safe to ingest.

The Effects of GMOS in Studies

Originally, it was believed that genetic engineering of crops was beneficial. GMO crops are provide a higher yield, which helps reduce nationwide hunger. Additionally, GMOs have a greater resistance to pests, eliminating the need for harmful pesticides. However, GMOs have shown to negatively impact lab rats in scientific studies. In a French study, lab rats that were fed moderate amounts of GMO corn developed liver damage, kidney problems and tumors. Another study in Australia found that GMO-fed pigs developed reproductive issues, stomach ulcers, and stomach hemorrhaging.

The Growing GMO Labeling Movement

The evidence reported in these studies has lead many consumers to investigate the ingredients in popular household foods. Major agribusinesses say that labeling foods as “GMO” will cause a frantic outcry amongst consumers, but the GMO labeling movement believes food labeling will restore the consumer’s power to choose. The GMO labeling movement started out as a simple grassroots movement, but with time and effort, these individuals have managed to persuade major companies like General Mills to remove GMOs from popular items, such as Cheerios.

Supporting the Efforts

As more consumers learn about the negative health effects of GMOs in studies, the GMO labeling movement has grown rapidly. To help support food labeling, find out about state legislation regarding the matter and contact congressmen and representatives to voice concerns. Meanwhile, try to purchase locally grown, non GMO food items as often as possible. Check items at the grocery story, and favor “non GMO” marked products over unmarked ones. By putting more money into non GMO companies, consumers can send a clear message to big agribusiness to label products. While GMOs certainly have advantages over natural food items in terms of growth rate and pest resistance, there is still much to be learned about the long-lasting effects of eating these items. In the meantime, the decision as to whether or not GMO items are safe to eat should be left to the consumer, not the big businesses marketing these engineered mutations. To support the GMO labeling movement, get in touch with local organic farmers and discover ways to help. Image Source: YouTube