Why non-GMO matters!

A healthy lifestyle plays a pivotal role in the prevention of chronic diseases and long-term illnesses, ultimately providing enhanced performance in our daily lives. The basic fundamentals of a hale and hearty lifestyle begin with clean and healthy food. Consuming clean foods consistently can improve heart and brain health, assist weight management, build a stronger immune system and increase energy levels, among other benefits. It is better to consume food directly from the source, in its natural state, and with minimal processing. When fresh produce goes through minimal levels of processing stage without any additives, the taste remains authentic without affecting its nutrient content.

GMO & non- GMO

Therefore, to ensure healthy consumption, it is ideal to look for products with non-GMO certifications when purchasing. Non-GMO, meaning non-genetically modified organisms, are foods made without the ingredients that were derived from genetically modified organisms (GMO). GMOs are living organisms whose genetic material has been manipulated artificially in the laboratory through genetic engineering. 

Most GMOs are engineered to survive the direct application of herbicide and produce an insecticide. Nowadays, new technologies are utilized to artificially develop other traits in plants, for instance: resistance to browning in apples. Apart from that, other technologies are used to create new organisms using synthetic biology.

Manufacturers of GMO products and foods genetically alter organisms to improve the product or gain a commercial advantage. For example, GMO plants may be easier to grow in large quantities, or they may produce more fruit. Another example would be GMO potatoes that stay fresh longer, have reduced bruising and fewer black spots. On the other hand, non-GMO products and foods are those that comprise ingredients derived from plants, animals, and other organisms whose genetic material has not been artificially modified in the laboratory. Non-GMO stays true to the naturality and authenticity as each plant and animal is expected to grow to safeguard the wellbeing of our ecology.

Health risks of GMO products

Over the years, scientists, consumers and environmental groups have cited many health and environmental risks with foods containing GMOs. There has been links of GMO with a higher presence of toxic pesticides and chemicals. Many health issues associated with GMOs are heavily debated about till date since genetic engineering is a relatively new practice. Hence, very little is known about its safety and long-term impacts.

Some consumers believe that GMO foods have more potential to trigger allergic reactions. This is because these foods may contain genes from an allergen (a food that causes an allergic reaction). In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) discourages genetic engineers from using DNA from allergens unless they can prove that the gene does not pose any threats. 

GMO’s Impact on the Environment

When it comes to the environment, GMOs contain the chances to cause adverse impacts to the planet. GMO crops may spread beyond their plantation area as they share a considerable part of their genes with other crops. GMO crops are usually altered to be more resilient compared to their wild counterparts; hence, this can lead to the loss of natural crops. Most of the genetically modified crops have been engineered for herbicide tolerance, meaning they can survive when sprayed by herbicides used to kill weeds. The herbicides cause habitat loss for wildlife, decrease soil health, and limit farmland biodiversity.

What Does non-GMO Mean on Food Product Label?

With the increasing interest in natural foods and healthy living, non-GMO foods have gained attention as the preferred alternative. Even then, a significant portion of the population in the country still end up consuming genetically engineered foods because of indifference. Consumers mostly do not have enough idea on what foods are genetically engineered; thus, it is important for a product to be non-GMO verified. When a product is non-GMO verified, it suggests that all the ingredients were derived from plants, animals, and other organisms whose genetic material has not been artificially modified in the laboratory. The non-GMO label will provide consumers with the confidence to buy the products without any kind of stress and hassle.

The non-GMO Project is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that has developed a verification system for consumers who wish to avoid genetically modified organisms. Dedicated to building and protecting a non-GMO food supply, non-GMO Project is the market leader for GMO avoidance. It is also one of the fastest-growing labels as consumer demand rises for transparency in the use of GMOs. The non-GMO Project Verified seal is a highly meaningful label for both consumers and manufacturers willing to avoid GMOs, promote non-GMO products, and support farmers who do not use GMOs. Therefore, when purchasing products that do not use GMOs, looking for non-GMO Project Verified seals can be the best option for avoiding GMOs.

Last Word!

When food is natural, it supports healthy living and sustainability aside from increasing the overall quality of life. This is why it is necessary for us to gather knowledge about the food we consume, and make the right choices for the betterment of our health and overall well-being. 

Know more about:  Organic Food And Health Benefits