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Are genetically modified foods safe? There is still quite a bit of
controversy. And because of this, many are opting to forgo any type of
food that has been genetically modified. And this list of foods is
surprising. Soybeans, corn, tomatoes, sugar cane, corn, canola, rice and
even dairy are among the many foods that have been altered.
Why are foods modified? For many, it is to
benefit the grocer or the farmer. For instance, soybeans are injected with
a gene found in bacteria to make them resistant to herbicides. Tomatoes
are modified to prevent them from rotting quickly. And corn is injected
with a gene from bacteria that helps it to produce an insecticide.
How do we avoid these foods? The safest and
easiest way is to buy food labeled as 100% organic. By law, these have not been modified, and if they are animal products they were
not fed genetically modified food. Remember, if the label simply says,
"free range," "natural" or "organic," these might still contain genetically
modified products. Go with the 100% Organic foods at all times.
Animals such as cows and sheep might be fed altered
feed. If the meat is labeled, "pasture fed," "grass fed" or "pasture
finished," then it is more likely they were not fed grain that has been
modified.
If you are lucky, you may find products listed as
"non-GM" or "GMO free." This is the manufacturer's way of indicating that
the food has not been genetically modified. Buying whole foods and
preparing things yourself is preferable to purchasing pre-made boxed items.
Many local produce stands offer fresh foods that are
less likely to be altered. And finally, the best way to be sure your food
is pure is to grow it yourself. Why not try out a garden this summer, or
even grow some winter veggies in the fall. After all, nothing tastes
better than a fresh, homegrown tomato!
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