Health Concerns About Genetically Modified Foods

photo courtesy of wikipedia- GM foods

Well, I am making myself very clear to you that when I did research about genetically modified foods; my mind was like a clear slate. I did not have any preconceived notions about these foods. All I knew were genetically modified foods come in different colours. Phew!! I was in a complete shock as I further worked on the post.

 Genetically modified foods are so called because specific changes are done to their DNA by scientists by using genetic engineering. The changes to their DNA would have been made for faster growth, resistance to pathogens and to increase the nutritional content. Do you know the examples of GM foods? Well, let me tell you. They include salmon, animal feed, golden rice, rape seed, honey, cotton, soybean, sugar cane, tomatoes, corn, sweet corn, canola, potatoes, flax, papaya and squash. The list continues red hearted chicory, cotton seed oil, tobacco, meat, peas, vegetable oil, sugar beets, dairy products and vitamins.

 

Though there may be many advantages scientists are issuing a warning call about these foods. FDA researchers have warned that GM foods can cause unpredictable side effects and nutritional problems in the long run. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine reports that animal studies associated with GM foods found that these foods can lead to infertility, immune problems, accelerated ageing, faulty insulin regulation, changes in major organs and gastrointestinal system.

 

Now a recent scientific investigation by the Global Research Consortium concludes that after three years of feeding pigs with GM maize they could not find any adverse health issues. I just wonder the findings are for three years what about the health effects in the long run? Say 10 years.  I used to give my daughter baby carrots as her school snack. Now, I am going to cut some nice round pieces from the traditional carrots and fill her snack box. I have a small herb garden in my balcony. It is really a nice feeling to grow your own stuff. Hope you would try it!

 

Take care,

Swarnam