How To Avoid GMO Products: A Guide To Safer Food Choices

With a growing global population and increasing demand for food, farmers and scientists have developed methods to produce higher yields and more pest resilient crops. Among these innovations is genetic engineering, a technology used to create genetically modified organisms (GMOs). As you might know, GMOs have also sparked concerns about their health and environmental impacts. If you’re concerned about the potential risks of genetically modified ingredients, avoiding GMOs is a precautionary step toward minimizing the risks. In this blog post, we’ll explore what GMOs are, address the concerns surrounding them, and share actionable tips to help you avoid genetically modified foods in your daily life. This will empower you to make informed food choices.

How To Avoid GMO Products

To avoid GMO foods effectively, it’s essential to understand what they are and why some people choose to steer clear of them. This post will provide a breakdown of GMOs, address concerns, and offer actionable tips for maintaining a GMO-free diet. Education about genetically engineered foods will equip you to make informed decisions for your health and well-being.

What Is GMO?

To begin with, “GMO” stands for “genetically modified organism.” Specifically, these are plants, animals, or microorganisms that have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering techniques. To clarify, genetic modifications introduce such desirable traits as resistance to pests or tolerance to herbicides.

Unlike traditional breeding, which combines traits through natural reproduction, genetic engineering allows scientists to transfer specific genes between unrelated organisms. For example, genes from bacteria might be inserted into corn to make it resistant to pests or herbicides. Common genetically modified crops include corn, soybeans, canola, and sugar beets. These ingredients often end up in processed foods like snacks, cereals, and sauces (source and source).

Are GMO Products Safe?

Evidently, the safety of genetically modified ingredients remains a topic of debate. On the one hand, regulatory agencies like the FDA and WHO state that genetically modified foods are safe to eat when approved for consumption. On the other hand, concerns arise about potential health risks, unintended environmental consequences, and the lack of long-term studies on their health effects.

As for I Read Labels For You, we consider GMO products unsafe for the reasons stated below.

What Is Wrong With GMO Products?

In my opinion, some of the things that are wrong with GMO products include:

• lack of long-term studies on GMOs’ effects
• environmental concerns
• health risks, and
• ethical considerations.

 Let’s talk about each of these factors.

Lack Of Long-Term Studies On GMOs’ Effects

To start with, genetic engineering in food is relatively new. In fact, the first genetically engineered food crop (of tomatoes) was created in 1995. Then followed the development and commercial release of maize, soybeans, cotton, canola, potatoes, papaya, alfalfa, squash, and sugar beets (source).

Consequently, 30 years doesn’t seem like a long enough period to draw conclusions on the long-term health effects of consuming genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In addition, there are some challenges in data collection.

Indeed, epidemiological studies, which analyze health patterns in populations, are crucial for understanding the potential impacts of genetically modified foods. However, conducting epidemiological studies on GMOs is challenging due to some factors. They include the widespread presence of GMOs in the food supply and the lack of GMO labeling in some regions, which complicates exposure assessment. As a result, direct long-term epidemiological data on GMO consumption and human health is limited.

In other words, statements like “there has been no proof that GMO can cause harm to human consumers” arise not from the abundance of research but from the lack of research. So, keep that in mind.

Environmental Concerns

The key issue here is the use of a controversial herbicide called “glyphosate.” To clarify, glyphosate is the active ingredient in herbicides like “Roundup,” and it is primarily used on glyphosate-tolerant (“Roundup Ready”) GMO crops, such as:

• corn
• soybeans
• cotton
• canola, and
• sugar beets.

Specifically, after genetic engineering, these crops can withstand glyphosate applications, allowing farmers to spray fields to control weeds without harming the crop. While on the surface that sounds like a great idea, it’s not that great. First, overuse of glyphosate has led to the development of glyphosate-resistant “superweeds” that require even more chemicals to control. Second, glyphosate is linked to ecological issues, such as biodiversity loss and impacts on soil microbiomes. (source and source)

On top of that, glyphosate can remain on crops, leading to potential dietary exposure and health risks, discussed next.

Health Risks

Glyphosate Residue Concerns

To start with, reportedly, glyphosate works by inhibiting the shikimate pathway, a metabolic pathway found in plants, fungi, and many bacteria. While this pathway is not present in humans, it is crucial for many gut microbes. Disruption of this pathway can kill or inhibit the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, potentially leading to an imbalance (dysbiosis). Thus, this study reports that low-dose glyphosate exposure alters gut microbiota composition and modulates gut homeostasis.

Ultimately, dysbiosis may cause:

• digestive issues (e.g., bloating, diarrhea, or constipation)
• inflammatory conditions like IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
• compromised gut barrier function (leaky gut), which could increase systemic inflammation
• weakened immune responses and increased susceptibility to autoimmune conditions
• neurological and behavioral effects (source and source).

Moreover, in 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A).

Bt Toxins Residue Concerns

Next, Bt toxins, derived from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), are widely used in agriculture due to their effectiveness in killing specific insects. Incorporating Bt genes into genetically modified crops makes these plants produce their own pesticides. As a result, every part of a Bt GM crop, including its produce, contains the Bt toxin, which is subsequently consumed by both livestock and humans. Most Bt GMOs undergo little to no rigorous testing on the assumption that since Bt toxin is deemed safe for non-target organisms, it is equally safe in GMO produce. (source)

However, a rat feeding study revealed that GM Bt insecticidal corn caused significant health effects, including altered blood biochemistry, organ damage (notably to the liver and kidneys), and potential impacts on male fertility. The only variable between GM and non-GM corn was the genetic modification itself. This confirmed that the observed effects were directly attributable to the GM process rather than external factors like cultivation conditions.

Furthermore, this study points out that Btk (kurstaki Bt variety) toxins can interfere with conserved cell adhesion mechanisms, causing disruption of intestinal homeostasis and endocrine functions. The study specifies that Btk belongs to the B. cereus group, some strains of which are well known human opportunistic pathogens. Therefore, ingestion of Btk along with food may threaten organisms not susceptible to Btk infection.

Ethical Considerations

Above all, I see ethical concerns with Bayer, a global company that focuses on healthcare and agriculture, acquiring Monsanto, which specialized in genetically engineered (GE) seeds and herbicides. As you may know, Monsanto developed and patented glyphosate in the 1970s and began selling it under the trade name “Roundup.” So, now Bayer is holding the keys to your health on both ends: first, by potentially inducing the health risks and then, by providing you with drugs to address them. Sounds convenient.

Lastly, there is controversy as to labeling GMO products. The absence of clear GMO labeling affects the freedom of individual choice as people may unknowingly consume genetically modified foods. While initiatives, like the Non-GMO Project and their “Butterfly” label, offer verification programs, many products labeled in stores still lack transparency.

Which Products Have The Highest Chance Of Containing GMO?

If you’re trying to avoid GMOs, be aware of these common products:

• corn, soybeans, and canola
• sugar beets (used in non-organic sugar)
• high fructose corn syrup
• processed foods (e.g., snacks, cereals, frozen meals)
• meat and dairy (if animals are fed GMO grains)
• cooking oils, including canola oil (source).

How To Avoid GMO Foods

To avoid GMO foods, consider the following tips:

• buy organic foods
• look for non-GMO labeling
• choose whole foods over processed foods
• avoid high-risk ingredients, and
• educate yourself on GMOs.

Buy Organic Foods

First, products labeled “100% organic” must comply with USDA regulations prohibiting the use of GMOs. Choosing organic foods is one of the best ways to avoid GMO foods. So, look for the USDA Organic seal when shopping for fruits, vegetables, and packaged items.

Be careful about calls to eat “locally grown food.” Indeed, the fact that it is locally grown does not negate the use of herbicides. True, it is great to support local farmers that prioritize traditional farming practices and avoid using pesticides. However, it’s up to you to find out whether they do so. In other words, “locally grown” does not necessarily translate to “GMO-free” or “herbicide-free.”

Look For Non-GMO Labeling

Second, seek products verified by the Non-GMO Project, an organization dedicated to helping consumers identify GMO-free options (source). Their Butterfly logo is a trustworthy indicator that the product is verified to contain no genetically engineered ingredients. This certification provides an extra layer of reassurance.

Choose Whole Foods Over Processed Foods

Third, processed foods are often made with genetically modified crops like corn, soy, and canola.  An example of a processed food would be a jar of pasta sauce.  Hence, opting for whole foods reduces your exposure to GMOs.  You can use whole foods, like organic tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil, to make your own pasta sauce. Actually, my husband’s sauce is both tasty and relatively easy to make (e-mail me for the recipe).

Avoid High-Risk Ingredients

Next, familiarize yourself with common genetically modified crops and additives like high fructose corn syrup and polysorbates. (Read my blog post What Are Polysorbates? for more information.)

Be mindful of products with corn, soy, canola, and sugar beets, as these are the most common genetically modified ingredients.

Educate Yourself On GMOs

Finally, join GMOScience to get the latest education about GMOs. This public platform discusses the effects of GMOs and pesticides with a lens on health. The GMOScience was founded in 2014 by a group of scientists, physicians, lawyers, farmers, biochemists, plant geneticists, and educators. So, being part of this platform will enable you to be in the know as to the latest research in the field of GMOs.

Conclusion: Should I Avoid GMO Products?

When Deciding Whether You Should Avoid GMO Products, Take Into Consideration Lack Of Long-Term Studies On GMOs’ Effects, Potential Environmental And Health Impacts Of GMOs, And Ethical Concerns.

In conclusion, avoiding GMOs may seem challenging at first, but with a little effort and awareness, you can make healthier, more informed choices. Importantly, avoiding GMOs isn’t just about sidestepping potential risks; it’s also about supporting transparent labeling and sustainable agriculture. By choosing organic foods, reading products labeled carefully, and favoring GMO-free options, you can contribute to a healthier, more informed food system.

Note that skincare and makeup manufacturers can also use GMO ingredients. (I wonder what those can do to your skin microbiome.) If you’d like to be sure that you are applying GMO-free skincare and makeup, I have a solution for you. Since 2018, I have been using the cleanest and most effective skincare and makeup, free of GMO ingredients too. You can access these products on Crunchi’s website (use the ADVOCATE10 code for 10% off on the 1^st purchase $50+). And if you’d like to learn more about this company and their products, check out my Crunchi Non-Toxic Makeup & Skincare Review.

Take advantage of the I Read Labels For You blog for the latest research in the field of ingredients and non-toxic products. Also, browse the I Read Labels For You Non-Toxic Products shop as well as the I Read Labels For You Amazon shop. And download my Baby Wipes, Disposable Diapers, and Permanent Hair Color e-books for help with quick decision making!

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