How to Avoid Genetically Modified Corn

Genetically modified crops are everywhere. While Monsanto and other GMO companies insist that their products are safe, many environmental activists and health-conscious consumers fear the long-term effects that these foods may have on the environment and our own bodies. If you aren't too enthusiastic about jellyfish genes and chinchilla chromosomes ending up in your tortillas, you may opt to avoid genetically modified corn, one of the most common GMO foods.

According to Seeds of Deception, an organization that opposes genetically modified crops because of ethical, environmental, and human considerations, more than 85% of corn crops harvested in 2007 were GMO. Now, in 1010, this rate may have expanded to 90-95%-- making non-GMO corn one of the most difficult foods to obtain.

You can avoid GMO corn by purchasing only organic corn products. Products that are USDA certified organic can not legally contain any genetically modified ingredients. Be wary of products that contain only "organic ingredients"-- these may contain organic oil but GMO corn. If your goal is to avoid genetically modified foods, stay away from products that are labeled "natural" or "healthy"-- these terms have no legal definition and may contain GMO corn.

Can't afford to buy organic? Visit the True Food Network's non-GMO shopper's guide for a list of foods that are guaranteed to contain no genetically modified ingredients. Find out if your favorite tortillas, breakfast cereals and snack foods are on the list. If you do learn that your favorite products are genetically modified, write the company to tell them why you will no longer be purchasing their products. If enough consumers boycott and protest GMO corn products, fewer food manufacturers will offer them.

Understand that almost all products made with high fructose corn syrup contain genetically modified corn. Scan all ingredient labels to be certain that this sweeter-than-sugar chemical has not found its way into your food. Instead, opt for less energy-intensive products made without genetically modified crops. Honey, beet sugar, date sugar and evaporated cane juice may be more viable alternatives if you hope to satisfy a sweet tooth without hurting the planet.

Finally, when shopping for non-GMO corn, consider purchasing blue corn products. As of 2010, no strains of blue corn are genetically modified. They contain a high concentration of anthocyanins-- health-boosting antioxidants also found in blueberries, elderberries and acai. This ancient corn variety is hardier and less resource-intensive than its yellow and white counterparts and has an eye-catching appearance.

Environmentally conscious consumers may find it difficult to avoid GMO corn. However, a few simple steps can help to facilitate a GMO-free lunch menu-- and this offers an array of benefits for your health and our planet.