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What are GMOs?
A GMO, a Genetically Modified Organism, is a man-made organism created in a laboratory and patented by a corporation or the USDA. GMOs are created by a process called genetic engineering.
How are GMOs different from traditional cross-breeding?
We've all heard of creating hybrids by crossing a broccoli and a cauliflower, or two varieties of roses, or two breeds of dogs.
But a GMO is completely different. It is created when a gene from a totally unrelated species is shot into the genetic material of another species.
Here are some examples of GMOs that have been grown in the U.S.:
- Rat and human genes in trout
- Spider genes in goats
- Human genes in corn or rice
- Mouse and human genes in potatoes
- Fish genes in tomatoes
- Cow or human genes in salmon
These combinations never occur in nature.
Scientists worldwide now admit that the rush to sell genetically engineered products has put people's health, property, and the environment at risk.
This is why 30 countries have banned, or propose to ban GMO crops, including Japan and many European countries. In the U.S., Gerber baby foods, Trader Joe's, even McDonalds and Burger King, are now refusing GMO corn, potatoes, and other ingredients.
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