Which of these two scenarios sounds more vibrant for overall quality of life and health?
The wind on your face, the sun on your skin, you talk with a local farmer about the size and taste of this year’s harvest of peaches, as you pop a slice in your mouth. After tasting several different varieties, you choose your favorite one, walking away with a great memory of the farmer in your mind.
Or… You stand shivering in the freezer section at your local mega-mart, your eyes begin to glaze over from the halogen lights and the neon-colored cardboard boxes containing substances claimed to be food products? You decide on the one with the least amount of additives and make your way to the self-check-out line, excited to get in your car and out of the supermarket.
Clearly, most of us would agree that the first scenario, at the local farmer’s market, is much more appealing than a trip to a big chain grocery store. But what, besides the aesthetic factor, are some of the other benefits of supporting your local farmers market? Here are ten reasons why I believe you should shop at your local farmers market.
Continue reading: “10 Reasons to Buy Your Fruits & Veggies at Your Local Farmer’s Market”
I have been thoroughly impressed with Europe’s intentions to place strict regulations on genetically modified foods, including outlawing genetically modified produce in general. Sadly, an article I recently read from the London Independent lead me to research the upsurge in secret GM crop trials in Europe & U.S.
This article stated that the government of the U.K. has been formulating plans for the “secret growth of genetically-modified crops” in “secure government sites,” such as military research compounds, science parks, or other covert areas. In this sense, the projects will be conducted away from the scrutiny of environmental groups or the public eye in general.
The U.K. government has stated that they will consider re-opening the public debate on genetically modified foods as an option for “global food shortages and rising prices.”
Clearly, this is a huge step backwards for global health. The ministry is even considering changing the laws to protect this research by changing current rules that make it illegal to conduct GM trials in private. In this sense, the public would be completely unaware of governmental technologies that alter the natural biology of what we eat. Leeds University, one of the sites where the GM research will be taking place, has asked the government to foot the £100,000 bill for guards, security fences and cameras, to prevent the public from protesting trials.
Continue reading: “Is the UK conducting secret crop trials using Genetically Modified Foods?”
There’s a reason that people are searching for, buying and growing organic produce. It’s a matter of good health and supporting a clean and GREEN environment. People are finally learning the truth, that genetically modified foods are dangerous.
These genetically modified foods that chemists are “designing” are not tested over any significant length of time. They are introduced into our food supply, in our stores and often time with no disclosure requirements for labeling. Generally, they’re not pulled from the shelves until they have done significant damage to consumers’ health, and usually on a large scale.
Continue reading: “Do You Know What’s In Your Candy?”
What are Genetically Modified Foods?
It’s just as concerning as it sounds. Scientists have introduced into plants and animals, new, scientifically manipulated or chosen, genetic material, to advance and suppress traits as they see fit. The products are genetically modified foods.
From as early as the 70’s, scientists have been genetically manipulating crops. Scientists used these soil bugs along with other gene-implantation technologies, to develop numerous new types of crops.
These crops are steadily increasing in our and other countries as well. Some countries are not so completely receptive. The genetic materials are selected to promote resistance to pesticides, herbicides and insecticides; higher nutrient levels; larger produce; and tolerance to extreme weather conditions.
Many of the genetically modified foods you can find on your grocers’ shelves, today, because they don’t have to be labeled in the United States. These include: cottonseed oil, soybeans, cocoa beans, canola and corn. Scientists have even created plants that produce plastics and pharmaceutical compounds, not for human consumption. Feed grade corn is approved only for livestock food.
Continue reading: “Genetically Modified Foods: Why You Should Avoid Them”
