Ella Baker

There are no people more concerned about the possible harmful effects of GMO food than parents. That's why a lot of fathers and mothers want to know what is GMO food capable of doing to the health of their children as well as the rest of their family.

According to genetic engineering experts, recombinant bovine somatotropin, or rBST, is an artificial version of a hormone that's normally found in cattle. This hormone is now commonly used to help increase milk production by dairy cows.

GMO stands for genetically modified organisms. Over the years, genetic engineering has made it possible for certain plants and animal species to grow and continue breeding, regardless of the environment and time of year, with the intent to increase productivity and availability of goods all over the globe.

In any living mammal, growth hormones are naturally occurring substances which, amongst other things, aid in the growth and development of the species. Naturally occurring growth hormones in cows known as bovine somatotropin (BST) or bovine growth hormone (BGH) is secreted by the cow's pituitary gland and along with other hormones aids in the production of milk.

A genetically modified vegetable or fruit is actually far different from the organic stuff we see in our gardens. GMO vegetables are actually plants that were genetically-altered, as scientists have changed their gene structure, to either make the vegetable resistant to drought or excess water, as well as to make the vegetables pest-resistant.

Five countries have enforced proper labeling of GMO foods, but not all products still have the proper tag, so it can be quite difficult to determine whether or not what you're eating is safe.

GMO labeling started when consumers wanted freedom of choice between standard products and genetically modified goods. Genetic engineering has become a widely used process in food manufacturing, which is why people wanted more information so they stay safe and healthy when choosing these products.

As the GMO debate rages on, gmo companies and their proponents have continually touted the benefits of GMOs, citing it as the solution for alleviating world hunger, increasing food production, availability and quality.

GMO food are packaged as being better than their unaltered counterparts; but no matter how pretty they are marketed, genetically modified food is still leaving a bad taste in the consumers' mouths.

GMOs have been the subject of controversy from consumers and scientists lately. Even though advertisers might try to present the seemingly many benefits that genetically altered plants and animals, it is vital that people also find out the ill effects so they can decide if the changes are really worth the damage.