Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been in our food supply since 1996, yet many people are unaware of what GMOs are or why they’re dangerous to all of us and to the environment. Here are some of the facts about GMOs, along with a list of resources where you can learn more.
1. From One Organism to Another
GMOs are created by inserting genes from one species into the DNA of another completely different species. This is not traditional plant breeding, which involves cross-pollination, and it’s not natural breeding that takes place in nature. This is actual manipulation of the DNA, such as inserting fish DNA into strawberry DNA, and it’s something that would never take place in nature!2. An Increase in Illnesses
Since GMO foods were introduced into our food supply, the incidence of chronic illnesses has increased, and food allergies have skyrocketed, according to the Institute for Responsible Technology. However, powerful biotech influence in Washington has prevented any real, long-term research into the health effects of GMOs. So far, the FDA and USDA have allowed the corporations to use their own superficial, faulty research and have ignored pleas from the scientific community for independent, third-party research on GMOs.3. Countries Banning this Form of Production
Many countries worldwide have severe restrictions or outright bans on GMO crops and foods, but in the U.S., there is little oversight over the introduction of GMO crops, and there is no mandatory labeling of GMO foods. Polls consistently show that 87% to 93% of U.S. citizens want GMO labeling, but the government has ignored these demands. “Right to Know” campaigns are taking place all over the country, and the push for GMO labeling is gaining momentum. They have tried to implement scan codes for consumers to link to their smartphones. This idea was shot down because label advocates believe consumers will not take the time to scan for these ingredients. 88% of Consumers want this information printed on the labels so that their information for simple more convenient. Also, its a concern that scanning QR codes will only allow producers to gather more information about the consumer by having the information linked to their smartphones.4. Not Good for Wildlife
GMO crops and the herbicides used with them are harmful to soil organisms, insects, birds, animals, and humans. Increasing herbicide use is polluting water sources. Also, the GMO plants themselves present a threat to genetic diversity through their ability to cross-pollinate with non-GMO plants. This is a direct threat to maintaining the purity of organic certified seeds.5. Increase in Yield?
Biotech corporations try to make the claim that GMOs will increase crop yields and will feed a hungry world, but these claims have been disproved. The 2009 report by the Union of Concerned Scientists made it clear that GMO crops did not increase yields, nor did they offer any advantages. In fact, yields decreased in some cases. As of 2018 there is still little evidence showing that these crops truly increase yields though they do show resistance to insect damage and diseases.6. Goes against Nature
As GMOawareness.org says, the ethics are bad: “It's highly irresponsible and short-sighted to put genes from an animal, bacteria, or virus into a plant, or vice versa. Putting genes from one species into another violates the laws of nature, with unpredictable and potentially disastrous results.”7. What Will the Future Hold?
GMOs affect the future of all life on earth. MOawareness.org says it very well: “The biotech industry's vision of the future is deeply disturbing and saddening. On the other hand, farming systems such as agroecology, organic farming, and permaculture provide us with sane visions of the future that work with nature, produce the healthiest food, and care for the environment.”
As
organic gardeners, we need to be informed and aware of what we’re planting in
our gardens. Organic and open-pollinated heirloom varieties are safe and
GMO-free, and there are many ethical seed companies that don’t sell GM seeds.
For more information on the Safe Seeds Pledge click here: High Mowing Organic Seeds
For a list of seed companies that have
taken the Safe Seeds Pledge, go to this link: The Safe Seeds Pledge is your
assurance that you’re buying GMO-free seeds for your garden!
Links
with further information:
Article Resources: responsibletechnology.org, GMOawareness.org, and Peel The Orange.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment