GMOs or Genetically Modified Organisms have been in the news frequently and the discussion continues to increase as states consider labeling laws. As a Registered Dietitian and supporter of agriculture, I feel it’s important for you, as consumers, to understand the facts. Understanding the facts and looking at evidence based studies and research is essential with this topic as you will find all kinds of crazy claims and stories by doing a quick Google search of which many of them are not credible and biased.
First off, it’s important for you to understand what a GMO is. Genetic engineering is used to describe methods used by scientists to introduce new traits or characteristics to an organism. For example, a food crop may be genetically engineered to enhance group or nutritional value of the food. People have been modifying plants for thousands of years through breeding and selection, however the term genetically engineered has been used to distinguish those plants that have been modified using modern biotechnology from those those modified through traditional breeding. GMOs have been around for over 20 years and are regulated by several government agencies. The FDA regulates food from GE (genetically engineered) crops along with the USDA (US Department of Agriculture) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Due to the multi-agency regulation and examination, there has been thorough review on these products and practices to ensure their safety. In the history of using and consuming GE foods, there have been no harmful reactions or effects in humans.
Putting it simple: GMOs are effectively used as a way to improve the control of pests, weeds, plant diseases and increase their tolerance to drought and flood. This helps decrease the use of herbicides, reduce tillage & soil erosion, decreases insect infestations and increases yield. By the year 2050, the world’s population is expected to reach 9 billion. Currently, 3.5 million children under the age of 5 die every year as a result of undernutrition. GM foods have been developed to decrease world hunger and malnutrition. For example, scientists have developed rice with increased levels of beta-carotene. This rice is used to feed regions of the world which are deficient in vitamin A. GMOs are also being used to increase the amount of ethanol which can be produced from corn, therefore, reducing our dependence on foreign oil. Using GMOs in farming is the only way for farmers to feed the hungry world.
There some states considering a labeling law for these products. I do believe consumers have the right to know what’s in our food, however I want you to know and understand that GMOs are proven safe and that there truly is a purpose for them in our food system, so this shouldn’t straw you away from eating them or raise concerns. If you are concerned about GMOs you may consider eating organic. Personally, I feel eating organic is a personal preference and that there are just as much concerns about food safety with organic foods since they do not use pesticides, etc to kill the natural bacteria and many foodborne outbreaks are the result of organic farming practices.
So all in all, I feel it’s important for you to understand the use and science behind the use of GMOs and to use credible sources such as the FDA, USDA, EPA and unbiased university studies for education and knowledge. It’s essential to look at the evidence based facts before you form an opinion. We are all entitled to our own opinions, however I do hope this will help you understand the benefits of GMOs, despite whatever your opinion is.
From a personal insight, all the crops we (my husband and family) plant are GMOs as is the only way we can help feed the hungry world. Our beef is not organic, but our cows are well cared for and taken care of, thus providing us and you as consumers, a quality and safe product to consume. I do not eat organic, but I do practice proper food safety and strive for a balanced intake. You have heard me say it before, but moderation and balance are essential to healthy eating!
-Kelsey
Reference: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm352067.htm
