Introducing Cancer Brought to you by...Monsanto

Does cancer, Parkinson's disease and infertility sound appetizing? Well if it doesn't, oh well because we are all eating it! Monsanto is the leading producer of genetically engineered seeds as well as the herbicide glyphosate, which is largely used by commercial farmers all over the world to kill weeds without killing their crop. Oddly enough this is the same company that formally manufactured Agent Orange, the controversial herbicide used as a part of the U.S. chemical warfare program during the Vietnam War. It is estimated that from 1961-1971 this chemical killed or maimed 400,000 people and caused 500,000 children to be born with birth defects. Do we want the company that produced Agent Orange spraying chemicals on our food?

Courtesy of The Dissenting Patriot

I'm not saying that I want to overhaul a herbicide and pesticide system that has been in place since the 1970's but I do believe as consumers we have control over what we choose to buy. Many of the farms present at farmer's markets commit to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming. Another choice is USDA-certified organic foods which prohibit genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods that carry its label. However, non-GMO should not be confused with non-pesticide or non-herbicide. To be sure your foods are produced without pesticides it is best to visit the Farmer's Market and talk directly with your farmer. Also there are some pesticides and herbicides that are organic and relatively environmentally friendly. If you tend to a home garden and are looking for safe and environmentally friendly bug repellents try cinnamon to repel ants or jojoba oil to kill white flies. There are many options available online, Guide to Organic Pesticides, and some in stores such as EcoSmart!

Stay tuned to the blog for a post about recycling awareness and some great new recipes using easy-to-get and in season foods!

~Ryan

"When the world wearies, and society ceases to satisfy, there is always the garden" - Minnie Aumonier