The risks and effects of GM foods

What are GMOs and why are they controversial?

GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been modified to achieve desirable properties such as pest resistance or higher plant productivity.

The aim of this genetic manipulation is to reduce costs in agriculture and increase efficiency. However, the widespread use of genetically modified plants, particularly in the production of soya, maize and cotton, has led to an increase in the use of glyphosate.

Glyphosate

Glyphosatethe most commonly used herbicide in GM agriculture, has been linked to numerous health risks. In 1996, the permissible limit for glyphosate residues in food was set at 0.1 mg/kg. Over the years, this limit has increased significantly and is now 20 mg/kg in Europe and 40 mg/kg in the USA. This dramatic increase in permitted levels of glyphosate raises important questions about the long-term effects of consuming GMO foods treated with this herbicide.

Health risks from glyphosate in genetically modified foods

The use of glyphosate is not without consequences. Long-term exposure to glyphosate has been linked to several serious health problems:

Cancer

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans". This classification means that there is strong evidence that glyphosate can cause cancer in humans, in particular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Disruption of the endocrine system

Glyphosate can disrupt the endocrine systemwhich is responsible for hormone regulation. Disruptions to this system can lead to fertility problems, developmental disorders and even birth defects.

Intestinal health

Glyphosate has also been shown to have a negative effect on intestinal bacteria and leads to an imbalance in the microbiome. This can lead to Digestionproblems, which Immune system and increase susceptibility to chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity.

Organ damage

Prolonged exposure to glyphosate was associated with Liver- and Kidney damage associated withwhich impair the body's ability to detoxify harmful substances.

How GMOs affect food quality and safety

GM foods have also changed the landscape of food safety. Glyphosate residues in common foods such as soya products, cereals and processed snacks are particularly worrying.

In addition, genetic modification can introduce new allergens or toxins that were not previously present in food crops, increasing the potential for allergic reactions and other health complications.

The excessive use of glyphosate has led to the emergence of herbicide-resistant weedswhich are also known as "superweeds". This forces farmers to use even more toxic chemicals, which exacerbates the negative impact on the environment and human health.

Why GMO-free products are important

As the health risks of genetically modified foods and glyphosate become ever clearer, the demand for organic and GMO-free products is increasing.

Organic food is by definition free from genetic modification and the use of synthetic chemicals such as glyphosate. Choosing organic or GMO-free products is a way for consumers to reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals and take control of their health.

Many countries have started to introduce stricter regulations on GMOs and glyphosate. In the European Union, several member states have completely banned or severely restricted the use of glyphosate.

As awareness grows, so does the pressure for better labelling that enables consumers to make informed choices about what they eat.

Fulvic acid against glyphosate residues

Fulvic acid is known to bind harmful compounds in the digestive tract. Fulvic acid promotes the efficient absorption of essential nutrients and supports the elimination of glyphosate residues. It supports the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, reduces the risk of leaky gut syndrome and promotes general digestive health.

Conclusion

Although GMOs were originally developed to solve problems in agriculture, their long-term effects on health and the environment are becoming increasingly clear. The widespread use of glyphosate in GM crop production poses serious health risks such as cancer, hormone disruption and organ damage. By choosing organic or GMO-free products, consumers can protect their health and promote a more sustainable future for food production.