Want to Avoid GMOs? Then Eat Organic for Starters.

 

BY DAVE MURPHY

Food Democracy Now!

 

The easiest way to avoid GMOs is to eat organic food bearing the USDA label, grow your own or buy from a farmer whose growing methods you are familiar with.

 

Since this is often difficult for people, either because of cost or where they live, avoid fast food and processed food. Instead, eat diets high in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Wheat was not approved for GMO designation.

For some people the USDA organic label is controversial. I stood next to a farmer in court who lost 20 years of organic certification because he thought the USDA regulations, when they were first passed, were not strong enough. But since GMOs are prohibited in organics it’s a start.   

 

Because 94 percent of soybeans, 88 percent of corn, 95 percent of sugar beets, 93 percent of cotton and more than 90 percent of canola contain GMOs, virtually every processed food item contains GMOs. Unless the label says organic, soda, sports drinks, tofu, bread, crackers, chips and a lot of common foods contain GMOs.

 

Any store that sells “natural” products is selling food that contains GMOs since “natural” food does not adhere to the same standards as organics.