The food we eat has changed dramatically over the past few decades. While genetic modification of crops has been controversial, an even more concerning trend is the rise of bio-engineered ingredients in many common foods. Bioengineering of food involves artificially inserting genes into an organism to create new properties or characteristics. This process is imprecise and can lead to unpredictable and potentially harmful changes.
A new report reveals that 72 popular food products, from cereals to snacks, now contain ingredients that have been bioengineered. This includes ingredients like artificial sweeteners, unnatural flavors, and chemical preservatives. The long-term effects of consuming these kinds of engineered additives are still unknown. However, early research shows they may contribute to cellular dysfunction, digestive issues, and even cancer.
When you’re shopping, check the packaging for words like “bioengineered,” “artificially inserted genes,” or “lab-altered” to determine if ingredients have been genetically manipulated. You can also look for verified labels like Non-GMO Project Verified or USDA Organic, which prohibit bioengineered ingredients.
The prevalence of bioengineered foods on supermarket shelves demonstrates the importance of consumer awareness. We have a right to know exactly what we’re putting into our bodies, and to avoid potentially harmful ingredients that only benefit big food manufacturers’ bottom lines. This article will explore the known dangers of bioengineered additives and provide a list of the top offenders to watch out for.
What Are Bio-Engineered Ingredients?
Bio-engineered ingredients refer to food components that have been artificially altered or enhanced at the molecular level using biotechnology techniques. Here are some key points about bio-engineered ingredients and their potential health risks:
- Bioengineering allows genes from other organisms to be inserted into food crops to give them new traits like pest resistance or drought tolerance. This is different from traditional crossbreeding as it is done in a lab and can combine genes from different species.
- Common bio-engineered food additives include artificial sweeteners, preservatives, flavors, and colors. Enzymes and proteins may also be engineered and added to foods.
- The long-term effects of consuming engineered additives are largely unknown. Since they don’t exist naturally, the body may react to them as foreign substances.
- Preliminary research shows possible links to allergies, digestive problems, toxicity, and even cancers. But more studies need to be done.
- Critics argue that bioengineered ingredients are not properly tested for safety before being introduced into food. Without long-term human trials, potential health consequences cannot be ruled out.
- Bioengineering alters the molecular structure of food in ways that classic breeding does not. Even small genetic changes can create biomolecules that are harmful to consume.
- Some engineered additives have already been banned after being flagged as dangerous, showing the need for caution with this technology.
In summary, while bioengineering may provide benefits, inadequately tested engineered ingredients could pose unpredictable risks to human health that require further research. Consumers have reason to be concerned about long-term impacts.
72 Foods That Are Now Made With
Bio-Engineered Ingredients
-
Cereals:
General Mills Cheerios
General Mills Lucky Charms
General Mills Cocoa Puffs
General Mills Cookie Crisp
General Mills Cinnamon Chex
Post Oreo O’s
Kellogg’s Crispix
Kellogg’s Rice Krispies
Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Treats
Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes
Kellogg’s Froot Loops
Kellogg’s Raisin Bran
- Cookies/Crackers:
Oreo Cookies
Chips Ahoy Cookies
Pop Tarts Breakfast Pastry
Natures Valley Chewy Granola Bars
Ritz Crackers
Cheez It Crackers
Lance Sandwich Crackers
Pepperidge Farm Pumpernickel Bread
Member’s Mark Toffee Truffle
Honey Made Graham Crackers
- Baked Goods:
Pillsbury Cookie Dough
Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls
Pillsbury Grand Southern Style Biscuits
Betty Crocker Fudge Brownie Mix
Betty Crocker Blueberry Muffin Mix
Argo Baking Powder
Clabber Girl Baking Powder
Betty Crocker Hershey Frosting
- Frozen Foods:
Hot Pockets
Red Baron Frozen Pizza
Lean Cuisine
Mrs. T’s Pierogies
Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
- Snack Foods:
Snyder’s Pretzels
Goldfish Snack Crackers
TastyKake Honey Buns
Little Debbie Nutty Buddy’s
Great Value Fruit & Grain Cereal Bars
Dorito’s Nacho Cheese Corn Chips
Kroger Wavy Potato Chips
Tostitos Tortilla Chips
- Soups:
Speghetti-O’s Soup
Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup
Campbell’s Beef Gravy
Campbell’s Chunky Chicken Noodle Soup
Campbell’s Tomato Soup
Campbell’s Ham & Bean Soup
- Dairy:
Coffee Mate Creamer
Dannon Light & Fit Greek Yogurt
Blue Bell Ice Cream
Publix Cookie & Cream Ice Cream
- Condiments/Sauces:
Hellman’s “Real Mayonaise”
Hidden Valley Ranch
Sweet Baby Rays Buffalo Wing Sauce
Prego Plant Protein Spaghetti Sauce
Great Value Classic Ranch Seasoning Mix
- Drinks:
Yoohoo Chocolate Drink
- Candy/Chocolate:
M&M Chocolate Candies
Snickers Candy Bar
Skittles Wildberry
Jolly Rancher Stix
- Other Grocery Items:
Knorr Pasta Sides
Wegman’s Tapioca Pudding
Millville Original Pancake Syrup (Aldi)
Even Hand Made Items In The Grocery Store Deli!
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The prevalence of potentially harmful bio-engineered ingredients in our food supply is alarming. While more research is still needed, early studies suggest engineered additives like artificial sweeteners, chemicals, and unnatural proteins could lead to health issues over time. We have a right to know exactly what we are putting into our bodies.
When grocery shopping, take the time to carefully read labels and avoid products containing bio-engineered ingredients. Look for buzzwords like “artificially inserted genes” or “lab altered.” Be wary of vague terms like “natural flavors” as well, as these are often used to hide engineered enhancers. Support brands that are transparent about not using bioengineering in their foods through labels like Non-GMO Project Verified.
Beyond scrutinizing ingredients lists, there are other ways we can reduce our consumption of engineered additives:
- Buy local organic produce whenever possible, as these foods do not contain bio-engineered ingredients or pesticides that may be harmful. Farmer’s markets are great sources of local organics.
- Cook more meals at home using whole food ingredients to avoid processed items with artificial additives.
- Support local bakeries, butchers, and other craft food producers who are proud to not use artificial bio-engineered ingredients.
- Grow your own produce and herbs at home if you can. This guarantees you know exactly how your food was grown.
- Write to big food brands and demand transparency about their use of bioengineering. Urge them to discontinue potentially risky practices.
By being selective consumers and voting with our dollars, we can pressure the food industry to move away from unsafe bioengineering and get back to more natural ways of enhancing flavors and textures. Our health and our families’ health are too important to expose to uncertain risks from inadequately tested food additives.
Recommended Reading:
Top 10 Most Dangerous GMO Foods To Avoid Eating At All Costs
This Is Why Your Grandparents Didn’t Have Leaky Gut Syndrome – But You Do! Learn The 8 Things They Did Differently
