GMOs, By The Numbers
Is there a more controversial subject in the food world than GMOs? I don’t think so. With Connecticut and Maine passing GMO labeling laws last year, and 20 more states considering them, we all should get well informed about Genetically Modified Organisms. My problem with GMOs is that most manipulation of these plants involves making them able to better withstand high doses of pesticides. In fact, from 1996 to 2008—the first 13 years of commercial GMO crop production—there were 318 million more pounds of pesticides applied to crops. Take a look at this infographic, part of my “by the numbers” series this month. What do you think?
29 Comments
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Diane Miller
You are totally wrong – GMO are created so plants can resist pests so fewer pesticides are needed. What an ill-informed opinion to share.
Rachel Sarnoff
Thanks so much for reading, Diane! If you click the links on the facts provided in the text portion of this piece, you can read more about my sourcing of the facts cited.
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melissa mc
Looks like Monsanto and the pesticide companies want to control the world…… 🙁 all the more reason to support organic farmers and food producers!
Cathryn Kasper
If you’d like to read more about what doctors are saying about GMO’s read this great article from the Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jeffrey-smith/avoid-eating-genetically-_b_4784390.html
We must stay aware of what is happening for farmers, as they are the ones getting pressured to grow these Frankenfoods!
Also, good farmers, devoted to raising healthy organic foods for our families are threatened by companies like Monsanto who want to grow their GMO foods in fields adjacent to the organic ones, then sue the organic farmers for using their plant genes! Pay attention to what is happening in your area and speak up for farmers and growers!! Here’s a sample of what you can say: “Organic farmers are under threat by genetic contamination from unbridled GMO/GE crops. Those who claim ownership of genetics should pay the costs when their genes cross the fence and destroy the market value and health of neighboring crops”
Rachel Sarnoff
I couldn’t agree with you more, Cathryn. It’s crazy to think that cross-contamination can be contained. That’s how plants work, for goodness sakes!
Jordan
Staggering numbers! So important to know what we’re putting into our bodies.
Rachel Sarnoff
Agreed! I know, it’s pretty frightening. Thanks for reading and commenting, Jordan!
Sarah
I agree. It is just baffling that organic (REAL) food has to be certified, labeled, etc, but GMO food required zilch.
Rachel Sarnoff
Yes, agreed!
Becky Striepe
It is insane to me that we don’t label food containing GMO ingredients. If these companies are so proud of their products, why are they afraid to tell us when we’re eating them?
Rachel Sarnoff
Agreed! Thanks for commenting, Becky!