Whether to eat GMO or stick with non GMO foods has been disputed since GMOs were first offered in 1994. GMOs (or genetically modified organisms) include fruits, vegetables, animals and other organisms that've had its DNA modified outside of nature or crossbreeding. GMOs are increasingly ubiquitous and can be easily found throughout store shelves in the form of packaged foods as well as fresh produce. The debate over the safety and benefits of consuming GMOs continues.
This is a complex topic and there isn't necessarily something inherently wrong with human hands influencing the cultivation of crops and livestock to yield more food or to fight off pests and disease. It's been done for ages. The problem lies in the underlying reasons for the engineering of plants and animals. Reasons that include profits over the health of humans and the planet and heavy spraying of herbicides, pesticides and other dangerous chemicals that cycle through the ecosystem. Also, it's worth noting that many of the original promises of GMOs have yet to be attained (including greater yields and reduced pesticide use).
The GMO debate is a personal one. You'll find compelling arguments for both sides so it's important to take in as much information as possible. Do keep in mind that many sources of information do not fully disclose that they've received monetary compensation to argue their stance. The best thing to do is inform and educate yourself objectively. If you choose to consume GMO products, that's 100% okay.
Some may argue that GMO is the way to more and better food for the world. However, there are many other avenues to explore. Given the statistics on food waste, we can find ways to reduce the amount of food that ends up in the trash. There's also much to be explored in the realm of agricultural efficiency. A recent case study in examining Amsterdam's relatively small size yet immense crop output is fascinating.
Personally, we believe there's no need to meddle with nature in a way that can produce harmful effects for the planet and people. We don't necessarily need to use increasingly elaborate and ethically questionable methods to engineer plants and animals to produce ever more. This is why we strive for organic whenever possible. The choice to be closer to nature is deeply important to us. How about you? How do you feel about GMOs?
(Image courtesy of Gabriel Gurrola)