Choices and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)

We should be able to make informed choices in the foods we eat. GMO or Genetically Modified Organism are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques; food often has DNA inserted from a different species. The purpose of GMO foods is to enhance growth, nutrition value, colour & enhance flavour or to make crops more resistant to diseases/insects/herbicides. For example a bacterial gene has been inserted into corn making the plant resistant to the corn rootworm (Bt corn). Monsanto, an agricultural biotechnical company is responsible for producing Roundup Ready Soybeans and Corn….plants that have been genetically engineered to withstand the spraying of Roundup, a widespread herbicide. Sounds wonderful!!! But GMO food has not been researched and tested thoroughly. Tampering with plant genes has caused weed and insect resistance and soil/water contamination. Under health concerns, there is a big risk of unknown toxins and allergens that can trigger adverse immune responses as well as hormonal disruptions, obesity, birth defects and allergies. In Canada and the US it is not mandatory to label GMO food. Soy, canola, corn and cotton are the most genetically modified plants but tomatoes, papaya, rice, peas can be as well. We as consumers should demand required labelling of GMO’s in our food. Certified Organic cannot contain GMO ingredients. Check and question what you eat! For more info go to www.nongmoproject.org The Ninety Ninth Monkey does not support GMO products.