What is a 'GMO'?

A genetically modified organism (GMO) is any organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. The exact definition of a genetically modified organism and what constitutes genetic engineering varies, with the most common being an organism altered in a way that "does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination".

Bacteria, viruses, plants & animals have been engineered with an ultimate goal to create higher profit margins. Genes have been transferred within the same species, across species and even across kingdoms such as salmon with various flowers for human consumption. The majority of GMO crops were modified to be resistant to selected herbicides manufactured by major chemical companies. In the U.S. 93% of soybeans and most of the maize grown is a GMO. Cross-contamination among crops has unintentionally spread globally as corporations litigate against farmers for unintentional copyright infringement.

Because GMO foods are relatively new, little is known about long-term human health. The safety issues associated with GMO foods are hotly debated between public health researchers & big corporations. Since the effects of consuming GMO foods has not been studied independently, little is known or documented. Over 60 countries including the U.K., France, India and China, require labeling of GMO foods. The U.S. & Canada have no labeling laws. As of 2019, approximately 80% of the human diet is GMO worldwide, labeled or not.