What's the Difference?
Labels can be confusing. Organic? GMO? GMO free? Non GMO? Let's talk about the difference, and what you should look for next time you are grocery shopping.
(GMOs)
GMOs, involve altering the genetic material of plants, animals, or microorganisms in a manner not found naturally through mating or natural recombination.
Approximately 75% of processed foods are estimated to include genetically modified ingredients.
There are several concerns with the longterm effects of consuming GMO foods. Here are a few: 1. Allergic Reactions Increasing 2. Antibiotic Resistance 3. Cancer 4. Loss of Nutrition 5. Toxicity
Organic farming is an agricultural practice that focuses on maintaining soil quality, using natural methods for pest control, and avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, genetically-modified organisms, and antibiotics.
Farmers and producers use the label “certified organic” to indicate that they have followed specific organic farming standards and practices when producing agricultural products like food, crops, and livestock.
Recognized principals that guide the certification process:
No synthetic chemicals Prohibited use of GMOs Sustainable Farming Practices No synthetic hormones or antibiotics No artificial additives
Food products that meet these standards will have the official USDA Organic label
Non-genetically modified, or GMO-free products signify food or ingredients that do not originate from genetically modified organisms.
The non-GMO project is a non-profit organization with the goal of “protecting your right to know what’s in your food.” You can look for official GMO project verified seal to ensure there hasn’t been any genetic modification.
Thankfully, with certified organic and non-gmo project labels, making an informed decision is getting easier.
1. Buy Certified Organic foods whenever possible. Organic food products are not allowed to be genetically modified or contain genetically modified ingredients.
2. If not buying certified organic, buy foods with the official non-gmo project seal. These foods have passed the standard and do not contain gmo ingredients.
3. Learn how to read labels carefully. Look for ingredients that are likely to be gmo. Avoid seed oils and other high risk ingredients.
4. Buy from small farms. Local produce, meat, and dairy products from small farms are much less likely to be gmo. Always talk to your local farmers to better understand their farming practice and how they grow their food and feed their animals.
Thankfully, with certified organic and non-gmo project labels, making an informed decision is getting easier.