Research shows that more than 90 percent of Americans want to know if their foods contain genetically modified ingredients. We bet you’re one of those conscious consumers. While the “right to know” movement continues to battle it out state by state, you can vote with your dollars. Do you know which foods contain GMOs? While it’s easy to identify potential GMO crops in the produce aisle, things get a little trickier in the middle of the store. GMO-corn derived ingredients, for example, can appear with more than one hundred different names. To help you out, keep this list of unexpected probable offenders on hand. When in doubt, buy USDA Certified Organic and/or look for the Non-GMO Project Verified seal which tests for GMO contamination.
Veggie burgers: This healthful alternative is often made with corn and soy.
Fresh produce: Not sure if it’s a GMO food? If it has a sticker code that begins with the number 8, it’s genetically modified.
Supplements: It’s not just in the food aisles that you need to watch out for GMO ingredients; many supplements are also made with corn and soy ingredients.
Infant formula: If it’s not certified organic, it’s likely that your infant formula is made with milk from cows that have been injected with genetically engineered hormones.
Bread: Read the label. Even if it says whole grain, many breads include high-fructose corn syrup which makes the loaves evenly brown.
Cereal: Since the Kashi scandal, we hope you’re checking the ingredients on your cereal. Even if it looks “healthy” and says “natural” that doesn’t mean it’s free from genetically modified soy and corn.
Honey peanuts: It’s not honey that lends those legumes their sweet flavor. Corn syrup often appears higher on the ingredient list.
Honey: We were surprised by this one. Bees can collect pollen from GM plants, and it’s virtually impossible to tell from an ingredient label. Buy local and ask questions.
Applesauce: If it’s sweetened, look for high fructose corn syrup.
Ketchup: See, above.
October is Non-GMO Project month. Celebrate by getting educated about GMO foods and double checking labels on items you regularly buy. If you don’t recognize an ingredient, do some research. If you find a GMO food has crept into your cupboards, try swapping it with something healthier. One step, one day at a time is the best way to take control of your family’s health and send manufacturers a message that you expect more.
