If you've gone organic there's a very good chance that you're not down with GMO food. If that's true, you'll be happy to hear that October 2010 will be the first ever Non-GMO Month, along with a special Non-GMO Day on October 10th.
It's estimated that more than 580 natural food stores nationwide, along with various companies, will be participating in this first ever Non-GMO Month. The plan - celebrate the rights of consumers in regards to non-GMO food products. The event, organized by the non-profit Non-GMO Project, will be coinciding with the launch of the updated "Non-GMO Project Verified" seal.
As you likely know, GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are organisms that aren't grown, but man-made. GMOs are made via a gene-splicing technique known as biotechnology, or more commonly known as genetic engineering, or GE. Organic foods aren't supposed to be genetically-modified, but that doesn't mean all organic food is safe. For example, it's hard to control GM crops from blowing their pollen over to your organic field.
Right now, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, does not require labeling for GMO food. A huge oversight since GM food are newer and in terms of time vs. use relatively untested. We don't know the long term affects of GM foods. Places like Europe and Japan do have GMO labeling requirements. The USA is more interested in the money it can make from GM food than labeling. However, not everyone is on board with non-labeling. Major consumer groups are pushing for change. Most organic companies are also pushing.
To that end, if you're looking for a label, the Non-GMO Project Verified seal may work for you. This seal shows that a product has been produced using rigorous best practices for GMO avoidance, which right now, is the best we've got. Labeling and thus telling consumers which products are GM-free gives organic-food producers a leg up because in the end, consumers leery of GM food will choose organic.
More on GMO issues and their impact on the organic industry coming up this month, but if you'd like more info stat, check out the following links.
- Non-GMO Project
- Genetic engineering at Sustainable Table
- AND for a balanced view, someone who seems okay with GMOs
Images ©Non-GMO Project
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