It might seem like genetically modified foods (GMOs) are inescapable at the grocery store, and it’s no wonder that you’re feeling confused and frustrated as you try to avoid them. These foods contain artificially altered genetic material that would not otherwise occur in nature (YIKES!). If you’re like me, you’d rather eat real food instead of “Frankenfood.” Let me show you simple strategies you can use when filling your shopping cart. Here are five ways for you to avoid GMOs!

Here are five ways for you to avoid GMOs!

1. Choose foods that are certified organic. This is especially important for the most commonly modified ingredients like meat, dairy, corn, papaya, canola, and soy.
2. Choose foods that are Non-GMO Project Verified. Look for the Non-GMO Project verified label or seal on the box, bag, or can.
3. Choose brands that ban GMOs. Find and shop brands that you trust. A brand example? Trader Joe’s. Here are other retailers who take a stand and ban.
4. Choose to eat fresh instead of processed foods. Most processed foods contain genetically modified ingredients. Plus, as you’re reading labels, be mindful of the added sugar, #s (hello, red dye #40), and chemicals. Remember, the best foods don’t have labels.
5. Choose to eat more produce. With the exception of soy, alfalfa, papaya, corn, beets, zucchini, and summer squash, most fresh produce is NOT genetically modified. Here’s a helpful tip: if the PLU sticker starts with the number 8, it’s GMO. If it starts with the number 9, it’s organic.

It’s hard, at this point, to predict the long-term impact that the genetically modified organisms in our diet will have on our overall health in years to come. My philosophy? When in doubt, throw it out. If there’s the potential for a negative effect, make every effort to avoid it! I think the evidence is mounting, and GMOs might very well be harmful to your health in the long run.

But, Healthy (Non-GMO) Doesn’t Have to be Hard! These small changes can make a big difference. Change Your Meals, Change Your Life.