GMO means Genetically Modified Organism.  In the U.S., 75 to 85% of processed foods contain GMO ingredients. How is a GMO plant made? Food scientists take the genetic material (DNA) from one species and transfer it into another in order to obtain a desired trait.  Genetically modified foods may look and feel the same as conventional foods, but they are drastically (and possibly harmfully) different.  We do not have labeling laws in the US to protect us from GMOs.  Any item that is not organic may be genetically modified.   Be aware of and avoid the most common GM foods, which include soy, corn, canola, and cotton.  The following is a list of the top 12 GMO foods you should be aware of.  For more information about GMOs please visit www.responsibletechnology.com.

Top 12 GMO foods

1. Corn
2. Soy
3. Cotton
4. Canola
5. Sugar beets
6. Papaya
7. Zucchini
8. Yellow Squash
9. Aspartame
10. Meat
11. Milk and dairy
12. Eggs

While I am not suggesting you need to avoid all of the above completely.  Aside from aspartame, soy and canola (and of course sugar is never optimal either) – you can find healthier sources of the rest of the items.  What I am suggesting is you make sure you buy organic when shopping for these items to avoid exposure to GMO’s.  Meat, dairy and eggs you definitely want to make sure you get from quality sources you trust.  Optimally you want to get grass-fed and free-range organically raised meat and eggs.  Finding a farmer through www.localharvest.org is a good place to start.