What are GMOs?A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered. Modification may include the mutation, deletion or insertion of genes from another species to achieve characteristics that may be more desireable, such as bigger size or resistance to disease or bugs.
Where are they used?In addition to foods, GMOs are also widely used in scientific research and pharmaceuticals. Organisms that have been genetically modified include micro-organisms such as bacteria and yeast, insects, plants, fish, and mammals.
How common are they in food?GMOs are widely used in food, especially in processed foods because staple crops such as soy beans and corn are nearly all modified. The National Center for Food and Agricultureal Policy estimates that 85 percent of U.S. corn is genetically modified. Other widely modified crops include canola oil, alfalfa and sugar beets.
What do U.S. regulators say?GMOs have been used in the U.S. food supply for about 20 years. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has deemed them safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration allows and regulates their use, noting on its website that, 'people have been modifying plants for thousands of years through breeding and selection.' The FDA said it regulates food made from genetically engineered plants 'to help ensure that they are safe to eat.' GMOs are not considered additives, meaning new modified crops can be created without seeking approval.
What do critics say?Critics say genetic engineering disrupts the precise sequence of a food's genetic code and disturbs the functions of other genes in the organism, possibly altering the nutritional value of the food or creating toxic or allergenic molecules. They claim for research is needed. Critics also claim GMOs, which are often designed for herbicide intolerance, have led to higher levels of herbicide use.
How do other countries handle GMOs?The European Union requires genetically modified foods -- including plants and animals -- to be tested and labeled. Some European countries, such as Switzerland, Austria and Hungary ban them, while others regulate specifc crops. Japan, New Zeland and parts of Australia also ban plants and animals with GMOs. Counties in California and in other parts of the United States are considering bans.
Are U.S. GMO foods labeled?There has been a movement to require food companies to label products that contain GMOs. Companies have fought labels, citing cost and difficulty. Companies also argue that GMOs are safe and labeling may cause consumers to unecessarily fear GMOs. That said, some producers do label, putting 'Non-GMO Project Verified' seal on some foods. And some retailers plan to label. Whole Foods Market said it plans to have labeling on all foods with GMOs by 2018 in the United States.
How do you avoid GMOs?It may not be possible to completely avoid GMOs, but to limit them, choose organic products, especially fruits and vegetables. All organic foods sold in the U.S. must be certified according to the USDA National Organic Standards, which prohibit the use of GMOs.
Also, look at the barcode on produce stickers. A four-digit code means the product was 'conventionally grown.' A five-digit code that starts with a '9' means that the product was organically grown. A five-digit code that starts with an '8' means that the product was genetically modified.
- Tribune staff report
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