GMOs, Antimicrobial Coatings, and
Specifying Wood: Myth or Fact?
On a recent hike, my friend “Jane” and I were discussing our favorite protein bars. She mentioned that she was careful to NEVER eat any food that contained GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms).
I knew a bit about GMOs since my tennis partner is a plant scientist who modifies plants to withstand pests and drought. I wanted to hear Jane’s explanation. She described corn as the biggest GMO culprit and the most harmful. Jane stated to our group of eight hikers that “over 90% of corn is injected with harmful chemical pesticides.” She had everyone in the group believing that GMOs are bad.
Since then, I read studies from the FDA and the USDA about GMOs and how they’re produced naturally and do not harm humans and animals. This confirmed what my scientist friend described...GMOs are created by taking a positive, natural gene from one organism to make the plant better. In the case of corn, one natural gene from another plant causes the corn to produce a protein that is its own natural pesticide…harmful to pests but not to us. This is the same process used by many organic farmers. (Read more in this FDA article.)
I then found another example of misinformation…one that could even lead to a dangerous outcome.
