5 Ways to Avoid GMO Foods
There has been plenty of buzz about GMOs in the world of health and nutrition. Many people agree that avoiding GMO foods is a good thing, but have you ever wondered why? What are GMOs? How do GMOs get in food? Why should you avoid GMO foods? All of these are valid questions you may be asking yourself. We’re here to break down some of the mystery associated with foods containing GMOs to help set you up for a healthier way of life.
What are GMOs?
GMOs stand for genetically modified organisms. GMOs are made in a lab by inserting genes from one species into the genes of another to get a desired effect. While animal products are prime-time culprits for being subject to GMOs, plant-based foods are unfortunately not exempt. Corn, for example, is one of the most common GMO crops that is grown and sold in the United States. Other plant-based GMO foods include soy, canola oil, and even some vegetables.
Why are GMOs Bad for You?
GMO foods fiddle with science, which makes them controversial when it comes to nutrition. Furthermore, there is conflicting research on whether or not GMOs affect fertility, organ health, genetics, and many other aspects of natural development.
How to Avoid GMOs in Your Diet
If you’re one of the many people looking to avoid GMO foods in your diet, you may need a bit of guidance.
1.Read all the ingredients.
GMOs have a sneaky way of hiding in some unassuming foods and often show up as additives. As we mentioned above, corn, corn syrup, sugar, and many flavoring agents and thickeners found in common packaged foods are hot button items for GMOs. Do your research and check the nutrition labels of pre-packaged foods before taking a bite.
2. Say no to aspartame to avoid GMOs.
Many low-calorie and “low-sugar” foods use aspartame instead of regular table sugar as a sweetener. At first, aspartame may seem like the best way to sweeten any deal because of its zero calorie claims. Unfortunately, aspartame is usually made from genetically modified microorganisms. Here at Munk Pack, we steer clear of aspartame. Instead, we use allulose to sweeten our snacks, which is sourced from non-bioengineered corn. Coming in at just 0.4 calories per gram, allulose is significantly lower calorie than regular table sugar (4 calories per gram) and has no aftertaste.
3. Look for the Non-GMO Project Verified Label.
Companies that have the Non-GMO Project Verified label on their packaging means they have proven that all ingredients are certified to not contain any GMOs. Foods with GMOs are unfortunately not required to have a label telling consumers that they are made this way, but non-GMO foods (like those from Munk Pack) will often proudly let you know.
4. Choose organic food whenever possible.
We know it’s not always possible or affordable to go organic, but try to do so whenever you can. The USDA National Organic Standards prohibits the use of GMOs in their products. This means no (or fewer) pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Not only will shopping organic help you avoid GMOs, but it may also better preserve the vitamin and mineral content of the food.
5. Prioritize fiber.
When hunger hits it’s easy to choose foods that you otherwise wouldn’t, so look for non-GMO sources of fiber to keep you satiated! Seeds and nuts are an easy and nutritious snack to help keep you away from GMO foods. Lucky for you, Munk Pack’s Keto Nut & Seed bars have both of these ingredients.
Follow these best practices to avoid GMOs in your diet. Never compromise taste for nutrition when you snack with Munk Pack.
