What does Non-GMO actually mean?
You’ve probably heard the term “non-GMO” and have even seen it displayed on packages in grocery stores. But what exactly is non-GMO, is it safe, and how can you know if your food is affected?
What does non-GMO mean?
Let’s start with what GMO stands for: genetically modified organisms. Basically, this means the genetic materials of plants or animal products have been changed outside of the confines of what nature intended.
Many crops we buy in supermarkets have been modified to either produce their own pesticides or become resistant to herbicides that farmers often use to control weeds.
Non-GMO means the food you are purchasing has not been genetically changed in any way.
Are GMO foods safe for humans?
The long-term effects of GMO foods are not yet known. Genetic engineering is still fairly new, and scientists are largely divided on if these foods are safe.
More testing is needed to learn how GMO foods impact human health. This is one of the many reasons many consumers only buy non-GMO labeled food.
What foods may contain genetically modified organisms?
Corn tops the list of genetically modified foods. According to the Non-GMO Project, “92% of corn grown in the U.S. is genetically modified.” Because animal feed is primarily made up of crops that are most likely genetically modified, animals are also affected.
Here is a list of some common foods that are at high risk for containing genetically modified organisms:
Eggs
Honey
Dairy
Seafood
Pineapple
Canola
Corn
Soy
Zucchini/yellow squash
Potato
Apple
Eggplant
This is not a comprehensive list of high-risk GMO foods. GMO foods may include ingredients in products such as granola bars, whole wheat bread, salad dressings, cooking oils, and other common household foods.
The easiest way to recognize non-GMO foods while shopping is to look for the Non-GMO Project butterfly certification mark.
This ensures that every ingredient included in the product you purchase is unaffected by genetic modification.