What is a GMO? (From Organic
Consumers Assoc.) GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are created when the
genes from unrelated organisms, such as viruses and bacteria, are
inserted into a plant or animal. More than 75% of all non-organic
foods contain ingredients from GE (genetically engineered) crops or
animals fed GE feed and given GE hormones and vaccines.
Despite growing public concern over the safety of Monsanto's
Frankenfoods, the US government refuses to require safety testing or
labeling for GE foods.
Monsanto's Roundup Ready corn, soy, cotton, canola, sugar beets and
alfalfa are designed to withstand massive doses of weed killers.
Since these crops were first introduced in the 1990's, the use of
toxic pesticides has increased dramatically.
Monsanto's GE bovine growth hormone (rBGH or rBST), now owned by Eli
Lilly, has come under fire from Breast Cancer Action for links
between the consumption of hormone-tainted animal products and rates
of breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
USDA certified organic foods are grown and processed according to
federal guidelines addressing, among many factors, soil quality,
animal raising practices, pest and weed control, and use of
additives. Organic producers rely on natural substances and
physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming methods to the
fullest extent possible.As
with all organic foods, none of it is grown or handled using
genetically modified organisms, which the organic standards
expressly prohibit. (USDA)
The Non-GMO Project
is a 501(c)(3) non-profit
organization
focusing on genetically modified
organisms. The organization began as an initiative of independent
natural foods
retailers in the U.S. and Canada,
with the stated aim to label products produced in compliance with
their Non-GMO Project Standard,
which aims to prevent genetically modified foodstuffs from being
present in retail food products.
(Wikipedia)