Genetically Modified Foods

A GMO (genetically modified organism) is the result of a laboratory process of taking genes from one species and inserting them into another in an attempt to obtain a desired trait or characteristic, hence they are also referred to as transgenic organisms. The terms Genetic Engineering (GE) or Genetic Modification (GM) both refer to this process.

Marlene’s policy is to avoid selling any product containing GMOs. While we cannot yet guarantee that every ingredient in every product fully meets that standard, you can be sure we stock the purest, cleanest grocery products available. Marlene herself helped found The Campaign To Label Genetically Modified Foods, the first organization of its kind, in the 1990s. Having passed the work to others, she has taken a public stand against the further planting of genetically modified seeds or plants until or unless research proves them to be safe.

Sadly, the opposite appears to be true: GMOs interrupt numerous cycles of nature upon which we are all ultimately dependent, and early research suggests that eating genetically altered soy can actually mutate genetic material within human intestinal tract. Another (Russian) study linked the eating of GMO soy by rats led to sterility within three generations. Numerous other early studies provide ample reason to halt further introduction of these organisms into our soil.

In Europe, at least 174 regions, more than 4,500 councils and local governments have declared themselves GM free. This rejection is at least partially attributable to more access to unbiased reporting by the press on health and environmental dangers. By contrast, the World Trade Organization, of which the United States is a leading voice, explicitly prohibits its 150+ member countries from banning GM products. Therefore, outright bans are too politically dangerous to be enacted. Yet worldwide outcry persists. In 2009, Germany joined France, Hungary, Italy, Greece, Austria, Poland and Romania in banning Monsanto’s Mon 810 GM corn because of its documented hazards to biodiversity and human health.

The important work of fighting this growing biotechnology is being carried out on many fronts, among them Marlene’s friend, Jeffrey Smith, an eloquent and vocal advocate against GMOs. Smith’s books Seeds of Deception and Genetic Roulette, as well as his DVD series The GMO Trilogy, helped garner national attention for this cause, as did his recent appearance on Dr. Oz. For more on this important issue, please visit Smith’s Institute for Responsible Technology.

And remember – eating organically grown food is still the best way to guard against eating GMOs – and over 50% of Marlene’s grocery inventory is certified organically grown!


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