Genetically modified food
Genetic modification or engineering involves transferring DNA derived from one organism and inserting it into the permanent genetic code of another. Animals, crops, fish, and even insects have been genetically modified, despite numerous studies that have shown that genetically modified foods can pose serious risks to consumers, animals and the environment.
Human health effects can include higher risks of toxicity, allergenicity, antibiotic resistance, immune-suppression and cancer. Read more about consumer health concerns.
Also read this research summary, GM Crops – Just the Science, which includes nearly 150 citations with a focus on the peer-reviewed science on GMOs.
Other informative reports include:
- The GMO Emperor has No Clothes: A Global Citizens Report on the State of GMOs - False Promises, Failed Technologies"
- Failure to Yield: Evaluating the Performance of Genetically Engineered Crops
- Genetically Engineered Foods: An Overview
Read about PCC's goal to be GMO-free.
The Non-GMO Project
PCC is partnering with The Non-GMO Project by asking vendors to verify that their ingredients are not genetically modified (GM).
The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit collaboration of manufacturers, retailers, processors, and distributors with a common mission of ensuring the availability of non-GMO food choices.
Federal law does not require GM foods to be labeled. Choosing Non-GMO Project verified products and certified organic products is the best way to avoid GM ingredients. Genetic modification is not allowed in organic food production.