This is a guest post by Laura Shea and Sarah Jacobs, both students at Los Altos High School. They are currently working on a project to spread awareness about the abundant presence of GMOs in foods, the negative impact they have on communities, what states are doing about GMOs and how everybody can get involved. 

GMOs, also known as genetically modified organisms, are ever spreading into America’s food industry. The crop type, developed in 1986, has transitioned from nonexistent to being present in up 70% of processed foods today. For the most part, GMOs consist of plant products that have been modified to more effectively resist pesticides and to produce an overall higher yield. However, as more and more research is published regarding GMOs, it has been found that they are linked to a multitude of diseases and negative impacts on the environment. Unfortunately, American consumers are largely unaware of their existence, much less the possible dangers they pose.

Nevertheless, people and students alike are taking action to both promote awareness of GMOs and to stop their presence in agriculture. Europe has already created regulations and has, in some cases, banned the cultivation of GMOs. It seems odd that Europe would be so adamant about the restriction of GMOs if indeed they were harmless. Luckily, Californians and other Americans are demanding the right to know if their food contains GM ingredients. Several campaigns have sprung up around the nation, advocating the mandatory labeling of GMOs and will hopefully put this measure on the ballot. To learn more or get involved, check out the Right to Know Campaign or go to http://www.labelgmos.org/volunteering.

But until food labels are direct and clear, the best way to recognize genetically modified foods is to be aware. Be aware of their presence and actively choose organic options or other certified foods. It is truly your choice as the consumer to support or oppose the genetically modified trend. And if you diligently follow up on this choice, yes, you can make a difference.