The GMO/GMF Debate

 The debate on the safety of genetically modified foods has lasted for decades, so what's the big idea? For decades, we have been gentically-modifing organisms, creating nutrient rich foods such as kale and squash but many people are still anti-GMO.  Some people don't eat foods that are genetically modified because they believe it is unnatural and could cause heath problems. Ninety percent of scientists believe that GMOs are safe, so why should we have to label GMOs and why do some people stay away from them?

Before we dive into the debate, ask yourself what is your stance on the issue or do you really know what GMO stands for? If you don't know what GMO stands for, it stands for genetically modified organism. Usually this means that an organism is genetically altered through scientists adding genes to an organism that code for a desired trait. By genetically modifying something we can add vitamins and nutrients to something as simple as a peanut. In fact my great grandfather, in his lifetime, began to research ways to modify the peanut to have lots of nutrients for a low price on the market. His goal was to use this peanut to end world hunger. So while we worry about genetic modification causing cancer or disease, we forget that GMOs could help save the world.  

One big issue surrounding the GMO and GMF debate, is should companies label whether their products as containing GMOs clearly on the front of their package.  Although it is a small complaint, it is a big deal to some people but is seemingly easy to fix. If GMOs aren't so bad then why don't brands just label GMOs on their packaging? There is a GMO law being implemented about labeling but with the power and money of big corporate brands it may be hard for the law to fully take. 

To take a look at actual GMO labelling myself I went to Ralph's and explored the bread isle. The brands Simple Truth Organic and Dave's Killer Bread stand out as non-GMO breads proudly reading so on the packaging.  Other brands such as Orowheat, Western Heart, Natures Harvest, Wonder Bread, and Sara Lee don't claim to be non-GMO but, they pride themselves on no artificial flavors, colors, or high fructose corn syrup. So does this make up for them being non-GMO? Some people say to avoid Sara Lee, a seemingly healthy bread, at all costs because the ingredient list goes on and on and is filled with GMOs. Let me know in the comments below if you think that GMOs ruin the "healthiness" of a food. Non GMO or containing GMOs always read the label on your bread if you are looking to find the       healthiest bread for you.

After researching GMOs, I would like to believe that they are safe. Though, I will limit my intake of them because they are frequently used in prosecced food. GMOs could help save the planet but we still need to do more tests to see the longterm effect of GMOs on the environment and the human body. What's your stance on GMOs? Have a tasteful day!

P.S. I recommend you check out this youtube video by Jimmy Kimmel revealing how much we really know about GMOs:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzEr23XJwFY

What's in your bread of choice?