What on earth are GMOs? Should we avoid them? Let’s talk about it.
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
The World Health Organization defines GMOs as “organisms (i.e. plants, animals or microorganisms) in which the genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination.”
The GMO debate primarily surrounds transparency and labeling requirements
Europe requires that GMOs are labelled as such BUT the United States and Canada do not.
Studies show that consumers are willing to pay an extra 29 to 45% more to avoid purchasing GMOs
As a result, many companies now voluntarily advertise if their products do not contain GMOs (i.e. Non-GMO Project verification seal)
Many of us do not really understand what GMOs are, when we should avoid them, and why we should avoid them; we tend to trust information that we hear on TV, read on the internet, or hear on the radio.
What are some of the arguments against GMOs?
Digestive issues, Food allergies and sensitivities
Weight gain and decreased energy levels
Cancer
Environmental concerns What are the arguments in favor of GMOs?
What are the arguments in favor of GMOs?
Increased crop yields
Improvements in food processing
Increased nutritional value
Example: Genetic engineering of rice to have higher beta-carotene (AKA Golden Rice) is meant to help reduce vitamin A deficiency in developing nations where rice is a staple component of the diet (*yet this would not be beneficial in areas without this deficiency)
So, how do we weigh the risks of GMO vs Non-GMO? Let’s take a look at direct vs indirect risks and benefits:
Direct Risks: Expression of allergenic proteins, changes in metabolite concentrations
Indirect Risks: Increased pesticide exposure
Direct Benefits: Increased crop yield, increased nutrient content
Indirect Benefits: Improvements in food processing, decreased pesticide exposure
Still scratching your head? That’s okay, because the rest of the world is too.
There is still much research needed to determine the short- and long-term effects of widespread GMO acceptance. Although most of the risks associated with GMOs are hypothetical, they are scientifically possible. Whether GMO products are healthy or harmful is far from a black-and-white debate; until the debate is settled, you can make a point to air on the side of caution and avoid GMO products by choosing foods certified to be non-GMO OR certified organic.
Questions? Contact us!
Email: courtney@plusforte.co
Phone: 978-590-6951
Reference: NASM. (n.d.). Lesson 1 in Nutrition Hot Topics and Controversies: GMOs and Gluten-Free. In Nutritional Science: Nutrition Certification.
