Reading Between Label Lines

While a growing number of people clamor for GMO labeling on food, many still aren’t sure how to read the labels we already have in place. It’s a skill all its own, reading between label lines.  What exactly does “natural” vs. “organic” mean?  “Cage-free” vs. “Free-range?”  Down the road, if GMO labeling becomes mandatory, let’s hope the labels will be clear cut and actually mean something to the everyday shopper.

But it’s a skill to read between article lines, too. While the following article explains the differences between all-natural and organic and other labeling terms, the writer’s off-the-cuff remarks are even more interesting. For example, she tells us:

“Organic fruits and veggies typically have far fewer pesticide residues than conventional produce, but keep in mind that all residue levels — organic or not — are kept in check by government safety standards.”

100% Natural

100% Natural

Our research over at The Walk A Mile Project tells us that, in fact, testing on glyphosate has not been mandatory, so how do we know how much of it is in the soil, harvest after harvest?  Another one of her comments is as follows:

“Here’s the general consensus from the scientific community: GMOs are safe. A large study from 2013 found no “significant hazards directly connected with the use of genetically engineered crops.”

Clearly, if everyone could be as sure as she is about GMO safety, it wouldn’t be the debate it is today.

To learn more about what labels mean, read the original article, written by Erin Brodwin, at http://www.news-star.com/article/ZZ/20150928/BUSINESS/309289898/-1/news/?Start=1

Author: renezimbelman

Share This Post On