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In today's world, there are differing opinions on genetically modified (GM) foods. Some people believe they are safe and reliable, while others avoid them regardless of certification. Ultimately, the choice to eat or not eat GM foods is a personal right. However, with so many food options available, health-conscious consumers often have concerns: How can you tell if a product is genetically modified? Is it possible to completely avoid GM ingredients in daily life? And are the methods for identifying GM foods found online accurate? To explore these questions, this reporter spoke with experts.
The primary way to identify GM foods is through labeling. Compared to the U.S., which uses a voluntary labeling system, and the EU, which applies a quantitative labeling rule (requiring labels when GM content exceeds 0.9%), China has implemented a strict directory-based, qualitative, and mandatory labeling system. This ensures that consumers are well-informed about what they're buying.
Walking into a small supermarket in Chaoyang, Beijing, the reporter observed a wide variety of cooking oils—blended oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, rapeseed oil, soybean oil, and peanut oil. A sales associate recommended a brand of peanut oil, stating, "This oil doesn’t contain genetically modified organisms and sells very well. It’s a bit more expensive." Upon closer inspection, the bottle clearly stated “pure physical pressing†and “non-genetically modified.†When checking a similar blended oil, the label noted, “The raw material for the soybean oil in this product is genetically modified.â€
According to Huang Dazhao, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China has approved seven genetically modified crops, including insect-resistant cotton, disease-resistant papaya, and phytase corn. While only cotton and papaya are commercially grown, other varieties like insect-resistant rice and phytase corn remain in the research phase.
In addition, China imports large quantities of genetically modified soybeans, primarily used for oil production. These are clearly labeled on packaging, allowing consumers to make informed choices.
Huang Kunlun, a professor at China Agricultural University, explained that China mandates labeling for 17 genetically modified organisms across five major categories. This helps meet consumer rights to know and choose.
Internationally, the U.S. follows a voluntary labeling system, where companies decide whether to label GM products as long as the information is truthful. The EU requires labeling when GM content exceeds 0.9%, but lower levels may not need to be marked.
There are many myths surrounding GM foods. For example, some claim that potatoes turn black after peeling because they’re genetically modified. In reality, this is due to natural chemical reactions, not genetic modification. Others suggest that imported GM soybeans are used for tofu, but in fact, these soybeans are high in fat and low in protein, making them unsuitable for tofu production.
Organic foods, which are produced without synthetic chemicals or genetic engineering, are generally free from GM ingredients. However, organic food is less common and more expensive, limiting its widespread use.
So, can we completely avoid GM foods? Experts say it's not necessary. The key to a healthy diet lies in diversity and balance. Whether a food is GM or not isn't the main factor in health. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while avoiding excessive processed foods, is more important than worrying about genetic modification.
As Fan Zhihong from China Agricultural University emphasized, a healthy lifestyle is the most critical factor. Whether a food is genetically modified or not is less important than overall dietary habits. After all, even non-GM fried foods or sugary drinks can harm your health if consumed excessively.
In conclusion, while GM foods remain a topic of debate, the focus should be on maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet rather than fearing genetic modification.