Mommy Goes Green

Did you know that 70-90% of all the all conventional (non-organic) corn, soybeans, cotton, and canola grown in the U.S is a genetically modified variety?  In 2008, genetically modified sugar hit the shelves and if Monsanto has anything to do about it, wheat will be next on the list.

The first genetically modified sugar beets were harvested in fall of 2008 and are probably in stores now.   Unfortunately, GM foods are not currently required to be labeled so you have no idea if you’re buying it unless you buy organic.  The good news is that I’ve seen organic sugar both at Costco ( or Sam’s Club ) and in the bulk section of our local supermarket making it affordable.

Several concerns exist regarding GM foods including an increase of allergy risks, threatening of wildlife and spreading of herbicide resistance ( GM sugar, for instance, is resistant to Round Up ).  In fact, 6 countries in Europe ban GM corn including Austria, Hungary, France, Luxembourg, Greece and Germany. And a study out of Austria showed mice fed with Monsanto GM corn demonstrated damaged fertility. 

Frankly, I like my fertility and don’t want to eat anything that might mess that up.  I’m just not convinced that GM foods are safe and it sounds like other countries aren’t either.  If you can, buy organic when purchasing these products.

If you’re interested in learning more, here’s part 1 of a 3 part short movie about Monsanto and genetically engineering foods. It covers every aspect of the issue, from health impacts like allergy dangers, to pesticide use, to biotech industry cover-ups.

Go here for parts 2 and 3.

There is also a great website dedicated to news about about a safe, healthy and sustainable food supply, The Organic and Non-GMO Report.  You can find a lot more info there!

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