Saturday, November 13, 2010

HOW TO FIND THE CODES FOR GM AND CONVENTIONAL FOOD

Be careful of what you eat - many foods in the supermarkets today are genetically modified.Whether genetically modified (GM) foods are safe or harmful is still controversial as explained in my last issue.

If you are concerned about eating genetic modified foods, buy food labeled 100% organic. The US and Canadian governments do not allow manufacturers to label something 100% organic if that food has been genetically modified or been fed genetically modified feed. However, you may find that organic food is more expensive and different in appearance from conventional products. Also, just because something says "organic" on it does not mean that it does not contain GMs. In fact, it can still contain up to 30% GMs, so be sure the labels say 100% organic.

This applies to eggs, as well. Eggs labeled "free-range", "natural", or "cage-free" are not necessarily GE-free; look for eggs to be 100% organic.  In my supermarket there are no 100% organic labeled eggs.  I am sure Whole Foods has it but it is difficult to travel there when I am rushed.

When shopping at my local supermarkets, I have not found foods labeled 100% organic,  I would love your comments telling which stores you have seen that have 100% organic labeling  I did not have the time to go to Whole Foods to see if they have it.  I am sure they do.

Recognize fruit and vegetable label numbers. So far I have not seen anything having numbers on them.  I think I will put pressure on the supermarket stores demanding they start coding.

If it is a 4-digit number, the food is conventionally produced.

If it is a 5-digit number beginning with an 8, it is GM. However, do not trust that GE  (Genetic Engineered)foods will have a PLU identifying it as such, because PLU labeling is optional.

If it is a 5-digit number beginning with a 9, it is organic.

HAPPY HUNTING! And, don't forget to comment on this website if you found GM labeling, and 100% organic.  It would be great to know which stores have those labeled. 

2 comments:

T said...

NOT SURE IF IT WAS MERCOLA'S SITE OR ANOTHER WHERE I GOT THE CODES. THEY ARE ALWAYS WITH ME WHEN I GO SHOPPING. IT'S AMAZING HOW LITTLE CONSUMERS KNOW. HOPEFULLY, THE PEOPLE THAT READ YOUR BLOG TAKE HEED.


T

IRIS said...

Dear T

You seem so aware of genetic modified foods. Please tell my readers what stores you shop that have labeling of GM foods.

Please comment on my website so all can see

Thank you again for your help.

Iris