GMO - Labels at Supermarket Newsletter
How to Identify Genetically Modified Food at the Supermarket
Many consumers don’t realize that the FDA does not require genetically modified food to be labeled. That’s because the FDA has decided that you don’t care if the tomato you are eating has been cross bred with frog genes to render the tomato more resistant to cold weather. Some consumers may not be concerned with eating “Franken Food”, but for those who are, here is how to determine if the fruits and vegetables you’re buying are (GM) genetically modified.
For conventionally grown fruit (grown with chemicals inputs), the PLU code on the sticker consists of four numbers. Organically grown fruit has a five-numeral PLU prefaced by the number 9. Genetically engineered (GM) fruit has a five-numeral PLU prefaced by the number 8.
Example: A conventionally grown banana would be 4011. An organically grown banana would be 94011. A genetically engineered banana would be 84011.
These tips are especially important now that over 80% of all processed foods in the US are genetically modified. Many countries in the European Union have been banning GM products and produce. They include Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary and Luxembourg. However in the US and Canada, food manufacturers are not required to label if their food is genetically modified or not.
Here are some guidelines for steering clear of GM foods in your diet, if that is your choice. Click here.
If you have any questions on this newsletter or any other topic, tune in Sunday 8am -11am (CT) to the Dirt Doctor Radio Show. The phone number for the show is 1-866-444-3478. Listen on the internet or find a station in your area.
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