Genetically modified or GMO foods have been hotly debated for years, and a new study published in the International Journal of Biological Science reveals that there may be good reason for outcry. Three varieties of corn genetically engineered by the controversial giant Monsanto have been linked to heart, liver and kidney damage.
New Study on Genetically Modified Corn
The natural health community has been concerned about the potential health impact of eating genetically modified foods for years – and it now appears that there may be reason for such worries.
Three different varieties of Monsanto GM corn (NK 603, MON 810 and MON 863) were fed to rats over a 90-day period, alongside a control non-GMO variety. At the end of the study, the GMO-fed rats were found to have extensive organ damage, including "…adverse impacts on kidneys and liver, the dietary detoxifying organs, as well as different levels of damages to heart, adrenal glands, spleen and haematopoietic system."
The study's short time frame forces the authors to conclude that "the statistically significant effects observed here for all three GM maize varieties investigated are signs of toxicity rather than proofs of toxicity." It seems clear that more research is needed before the safety – or the hazards – of GMO foods can be determined with any certainty.
The Dangers of Genetically Modified Foods
The biggest problem with genetically modified crops is the lack of investigation. There has been hardly any research to date on the safety of these foods (outside of Monsanto's labs) because GMO seeds are patented, making it difficult for anyone outside Monsanto – the company that owns roughly 90% of the world's genetically modified crops – to legitimately acquire the seeds or plants for study.
Despite the lack of research into their safety, however, hundreds of these foods have been approved by the FDA and other authorities. The three varieties of genetically modified corn studied here can all be found throughout the food supply in the United States and Europe – in popcorn, tortillas, corn on the cob, and as high fructose corn syrup used to sweeten thousands of everyday food products.
How to Avoid GMO Food Products
It can be difficult to avoid genetically modified foods at the grocery store – especially GMO corn, which is extremely common.
- GMO foods do not have to be labeled, although most companies that use only non-GMO ingredients make a point of saying so explicitly on their packaging
- Organic ingredients have not been sprayed and do not include genetically modified foods
- Ingredients will sometimes be listed as non-GMO where they are unmodified, but not organic
It can be a chore, but with a little effort and persistence it is possible to avoid GM foods in favor of tried and true crops that are guaranteed to be safe to eat.
References:
- de Vendômois JS, Roullier F, Cellier D, Séralini GE, "A Comparison of the Effects of Three GM Corn Varieties on Mammalian Health," International Journal of Biological Sciences 2009; 5:706-726.
- Scott, Cameron, "Is Monsanto's Corn Destroying Your Internal Organs?" Food.Change.org, 8 January 2010.
- Broudy, Berne, "Choose Your Tortillas Wisely," Backpacker.com, 15 January 2010.
Victoria Anisman-Reiner - Victoria Anisman-Reiner is a freelance writer with extensive experience in holistic health care and animal training.
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