Genetically modified (GM) foods may look and feel the same as conventional foods, but they are drastically (and possibly harmfully) different.  These types of foods have been altered by taking the genetic material (DNA) from one species and transferring it into another in order to obtain a desired trait.  Advocates believe this process will rid all of our food problems and help to feed the world.  GM foods are promoted to help make crops resistant to disease, to increase protein and vitamin levels making food more nutritious and to make fruit and vegetables last longer. 

However, what if introducing new genes into a fruit or vegetable creates unknown results such as new toxins, new bacteria, new allergens or new diseases?  Wouldn't you like to know what foods are being genetically modified and which are not so you can make the decision for yourself.  As of this writing, the FDA does not require any safety testing or any labeling of GM foods.

How can you avoid GM Foods?

First of all, be aware of the most common GM foods, which include soy, corn, canola and cotton.   Here is a list of some additional genetically modified foods, so the next time you are grocery shopping you can begin to make your own choices on what you ingest!  For more ideas see This Month's Step to Well Be-ing. 

Why are GM foods inherently unsafe?

• Many of the assumptions used by the biotechnology companies as the basis for
  their safety claims have been proven wrong, or remain untested.
• There have been dangerously few safety tests on GM foods.
• Industry safety tests are typically rigged to avoid finding problems.
• The most in-depth independent studies show serious damage to laboratory
  animals.
• One genetically modified food supplement killed about 100 Americans and
  caused another 5-10,000 to fall sick. Evidence implicating genetic
  engineering as the cause was suppressed.
• Many scientists both in government and in the private sector who discovered
  dangers or even expressed concern, have been attacked and silenced.
• How could the government approve dangerous foods? A close examination
  reveals that industry manipulation and political collusion science
  *Government employees who complained were harassed, stripped of
  responsibilities, or fired.
• *Scientists were threatened. Evidence was stolen. Data was omitted or
  distorted. Some regulators even claimed they were offered bribes to approve
  a GM product.

Source:  The conclusions of Jeffrey M. Smith, author of Seeds of Deception

How can you learn more about GM Foods?

THE FUTURE OF FOOD (www.thefutureoffood.com) offers an in-depth investigation into the disturbing truth behind the unlabeled, patented, genetically engineered foods that have quietly filled U.S. grocery store shelves for the past decade.

FAQ's about Genetically Engineered Foods

Dangers of Genetically Engineered Foods

How to Take Action

Growing Connections 2005
Conference & Organic Harvest Festival (Click for info)
Sat., September 24             9:30 am - 6:00 pm
At Springfield Oaks, Davisburg (4-H Fairgrounds)

See the full version of this video at the festival:
Hidden Dangers in Kids' Meals:  Genetically Engineered Foods