Genetic modification (GMO) is a common occurrence among canola crops around the world.
Genetic modification is done for the purpose of increasing profit margins, but at what cost?
To add salt to wounds this modification also comes with a hefty dump of chemical pesticides which enter the soil and destroy beneficial microorganism, biodiversity and the overall health of the soil.
Not sounding good right?
This canola gets to our food chain and the pesticides give off nasty residues and some dangerous metabolites that we are lucky enough to ingest.
Did you know… many years ago canola oil, formerly known as rapeseed oil was not fit for consumption by humans due to its highly toxic levels of erucic acid? Canola now days only consists of 2% or less of this toxic substance, but still, it is not a healthy option by any means.
It is heavily processed and is therefore, far from natural, despite originally coming from a plant. Toxic elements and high temperate processing make it a recipe for bodily disaster.
Yes, canola oil does contain what would normally be deemed beneficial omega 3 fatty acids. But unfortunately, once omega 3 fatty acids go through high temperature conditions, their beneficial properties can be transformed into dangerous trans fats or saturated fats.
It is important to be aware of the oils that are being used in your fresh cooked and packaged foods. Opt for olive oil at low cooking temperatures and coconut oil for higher temperatures. Both boast some lovely nutritional benefits and side step genetic modification and structure changes through heating.
What foods often contain canola oil or some form of genetically modified oil?
- Salad dressing
- Breads, rolls, pastry
- Mayonnaise
- Chocolate
- Lollies
- Aspartame
- Frozen yoghurt
- Pre-packaged soups
- Sauces
- Condiments
- Alcohol
- Protein powders
- Processed peanut butter
- Processes snack items
- Cake mixes
- Baby formula
- Baby cereal
- Processed meats
- Cookies
- Crackers
- Chips
- Burger patties
- Ice-cream
- Processed cheeses
- Cereals
- and much much more
The best things to do is to read all ingredient lists and look for foods that state GMO free.
Not all brands of the above mentioned products will contain GMO ingredients.
It is always best to eat fresh where possible and avoid packaged and heavily processed foods.