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GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organism. The term is commonly used alongside genetically engineered or bioengineered when talking about foods made using certain modern breeding techniques.
In general use, a GMO refers to a plant or animal whose genetic material has been altered using laboratory methods rather than traditional breeding alone. This may involve adding, removing, or changing genes to produce specific traits such as resistance to pests or tolerance to herbicides.
Most GMO crops grown today are plants. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration states that foods from genetically engineered plants currently on the market are considered as safe to eat as their non engineered counterparts, based on available evidence.
Herbicides and Pesticides Explained
Herbicide
A substance used to control or kill unwanted plants, often referred to as weeds.
Pesticide
A broader term that includes substances used to control insects, weeds, fungi, or other organisms that may damage crops.
Some GMO crops are designed to tolerate specific herbicides, allowing farmers to control weeds more easily.
Glyphosate and GMO Crops
Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide that is often applied to crops engineered to tolerate it.
Testing by government agencies and independent groups has found glyphosate residues on some foods. Regulatory agencies set limits that they consider safe for consumption. Most samples tested fall below these limits, although the presence of residues has raised public concern.
Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that glyphosate could affect biological processes such as hormone signaling or liver function under certain conditions. However, results vary by study design and dosage, and these findings do not directly translate to proven health effects in humans.
In 2018, the Environmental Working Group reported glyphosate residues in several breakfast cereals. Other organizations and regulators have noted that detected levels were generally within established safety limits. Scientific debate continues, and research is ongoing.
There is also emerging research examining whether glyphosate may influence gut bacteria, but this area is still being studied and no clear conclusions have been reached.
Other Herbicide Tolerant Crops
Glufosinate
Glufosinate is another herbicide used on certain engineered crops. The European Union restricted its use due to concerns about potential neurological and reproductive effects. It continues to be used in some other countries, including the United States, under regulated conditions.
2,4 D
2,4 D is an herbicide that has been used for decades. It is chemically related to one of the components once used in Agent Orange, although modern formulations and uses differ. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies 2,4 D as possibly carcinogenic, meaning there is limited evidence. Other regulatory bodies consider it safe when used according to guidelines.
Dicamba
Dicamba is used on some herbicide tolerant crops. Concerns about crop damage and potential health and environmental effects have led to regulatory restrictions and product cancellations in recent years. Research on long term health effects is ongoing.
Environmental Considerations
Herbicides used with some GMO crops can be detected in soil, water, and food products. Scientists study how these chemicals move through ecosystems and how they may affect wildlife and biodiversity. Findings vary depending on farming practices, application rates, and local conditions.
How Common Are GM Crops
In the United States, genetically engineered varieties make up a large share of major crops. More than 90 percent of corn, soybeans, and upland cotton grown in the US are genetically engineered.
Because these crops are widely used in processed foods and animal feed, GMO ingredients can appear in many everyday products.
Common Sources of GMO Ingredients
Corn
Obvious sources
Corn on the cob
Frozen corn
Cornmeal
Corn tortillas
Tortilla chips
Corn oil
Popcorn
Less obvious sources
Foods sweetened with high fructose corn syrup
Cornstarch
Snack foods
Meat, eggs, and dairy from animals fed corn
Specialty coffee drinks
Pet foods
Soy
Obvious sources
Edamame
Soy milk
Soy oil
Soy sauce
Less obvious sources
Salad dressings
Vegetable oil
Lecithin
Tofu
Non dairy frozen desserts
Prepared sauces
Meat, eggs, and dairy from animals fed soy
Texturized vegetable protein
Pet foods
Canola
Obvious sources
Canola oil
Less obvious sources
Baked goods
Sauces and dressings
Vegetable oil blends
Peanut butter
Prepared spreads and dips
Sugar Beets
Obvious sources
Granulated sugar unless labeled cane sugar
Less obvious sources
Baked goods
Soft drinks
Candy
Jams and jellies
Prepared sauces and dressings
Cotton
Obvious sources
Cotton textiles
Cottonseed oil
Less obvious sources
Meat, eggs, and dairy from animals fed cottonseed
Packaged foods made with cottonseed oil
GMOs are a complex topic involving agriculture, science, health, and environmental policy.
While major scientific organizations generally agree that approved GMO foods are safe to eat, questions remain about farming practices, herbicide use, and long term environmental impacts.
Many people choose to stay informed and make food choices that align with their personal values.
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