GMO 101

This is Pierre.

In my last post here, I brought up the fact that genetically-modified zucchini and yellow squash exist.  Most of the GMO concern revolves around a list of commodity crops like corn, soy and canola (see the list of "high risk" crops in my previous post), BUT biotechnology companies do have their eyes on other vegetables, too. Tomatoes. Beets. Potatoes. Alfalfa. The sky is the limit.

How does GMO contamination work?
The worry is that once a crop is approved for genetic modification aka bioengineering, those foreign genes will eventually pervade the seed supply.  For example, in 2004 foreign DNA was detected in 100% of canola seed tested.  In other words,  the canola seed supply has been completely contaminated by foreign genes.
Seed can become contaminated at several places along the production chain: planting, harvesting, processing, storing, transporting, packaging.   A lot of the court cases and documentaries cover contamination out in the field.  This means pollen from GM plants accidentally pollinate non-GM crops and create hybrids that contain the foreign DNA.

Why are GMO's so scary?
In most other developed nations, including the entire European Union, GM crops are banned.  That's right: banned. Illegal.  They don't want them.
The US government, on the other hand, has approved certain GM crops.  This approval is based on studies by the few corporations who create, patent and profit from GM seed.  These same companies also sell the chemical herbicides that accompany most GM crops.
Not only are GMOs a dangerous health experiment, they also set up yet another dependent relationship with chemical companies.

No one knows the effect of GMOs on our bodies, but studies are showing potential for health problems and environmental upset.  Many Americans are petitioning for GMO labeling so that they can make the choice to consume them or not.  Groups like The Non GMO Project are working to lobby to this end.  Activists are advocating for more studies before any other crop is approved for genetic modification.

That's the quick story!  Not really a nice one.  Hopefully you are not reading this right before bed.  I feel like people are really confused about this topic, so I wanted to attempt some clarification.
Todd and I have sorted out this issue because it effects our future as organic farmers.  We want purity in our seed supply and support companies like High Mowing Organic who pledge to oppose GMOs.  We pay quite a bit more for seed than farmers who are not organic, but we feel it is worth it.