Media Backlash: Dr. Oz and GMOs

Huge media backlash, some say, after Dr. Oz closes his segment on GMOs, their potential dangers, safety, California’s Prop 37 and the possible labeling of GMO foods.

So what exactly happened?

Well first, let’s get a few things cleared up right off the bat.  This is clearly a case of semantics.

So, let’s look at the definition of the words ENDORSE and ENDORSEMENT before we continue (definitions provided by Google).

Now, with the definitions of endorse and endorsement under our belt, we can easily determine exactly what happened.

During the October 17, 2012 Dr. Oz Show, a segment on GMO foods aired.  GMO foods are foods that are or contain ingredients that come from plants whose seeds have been genetically altered / genetically engineered (GE) which results in a genetically modified organism (a GMO).

If this is the first you’ve heard about GMOs, you may like to know that foods that are genetically engineered and processed foods that contain ingredients that have been genetically engineered are not labeled in the USA.

They are, however, labeled, and in some cases even banned, in over 40 other countries including China, Japan, Switzerland,  Peru, Italy, Brazil, Russia, Germany, France, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Great Britain, India and parts of Africa.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/59/Member_States_of_the_European_Union_%28polar_stereographic_projection%29_EN.svg/359px-Member_States_of_the_European_Union_%28polar_stereographic_projection%29_EN.svg.png

The European Union Labels GMOs

Today, there’s a huge controversy blazing across the U.S. as Americans finally become aware of the fact that 70% – 80% of processed food in America contains GMOs.

Additionally, Walmart carries fresh ears of GMO corn in their produce section.

Nearly 90% of all corn, soy, and sugar beets are genetically modified.

Most people don’t realize that unless an ingredient list says “CANE sugar,” the sugar comes from sugar beets and those beets are most likely GMO sugar beets. Yep, GMO sugar beets sweeten most food on the market, today.

Yes, even GMO salmon may soon be at your store or on your plate when you’re eating at the nearby restaurant.

GMO papaya, canola and zucchini are a few other GMO foods already in grocery stores and restaurants, today.

How GMOs silently crept into America’s food supply in the 1990’s is quite a story in and of itself, so I’ll keep that for a different post.

Why the controversy?

Aside from the religious ramifications of genetically tampering with life (i.e. crossing the DNA of a human with a plant, or a spider with a goat, or a cow with a pig, and oh, yes, these things have already been done; I’m NOT making this up) why should we be concerned?

Well, to answer that question I’d need numerous posts, to say the least, but in short, one reason is that third party research studies have shown tremendous cause for concern.

Additionally, when looking at  America’s sharp increase in infertility, autism, ADHD, autoimmune diseases, food allergies, diabetes, and cancer, scientists see that this increase correlates perfectly with the introduction of GMO foods into the American food supply.

But I digress… let’s get back to what happened on The Dr. Oz Show.

Dr. Oz opened the show with the following disclaimer…

“Now, for the sake of full disclosure, my wife, Lisa, was a narrator on Jeffrey’s film.”

Oz was referring to Jeffrey Smith, an author and filmmaker dedicated to bringing awareness regarding the dangers of GMO foods.

Lisa Oz, wife of Dr. Mehmet Oz
Narrator of the Documentary Film
GENETIC ROULETTE: The Gamble of Our Lives

BTW:  You can watch the fascinating new documentary film that Lisa Oz, Dr. Oz’s wife, narrates, FREE online thru October 31st, 2012.  It’s called GENETIC ROULETTE: The Gamble of Our Lives.  The film is available to stream for FREE online at GeneticRouletteMovie.com up to and through October 31st.

After Oz’s disclaimer, the GMO segment started with Oz hearing from the creator of the film, GENETIC ROULETTE, as well as, Dr. Robin Bernoff, a past president of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine, as they shared the danger signs that they feel are cause for alarm.

In the second half of the segment, a representative from the biotech industry, the industry that does genetic engineering and creates and produces GMO seeds, organisms and animals, spoke.

An interesting caveat, the biotech industry would not agree to let their representative appear on “stage” with Jeffrey Smith or Dr. Robin Bernoff. So after they spoke they both left the “stage” before she spoke, which did not create an opportunity for them to comment on what she had to say.

Hummmm?!?! Interestingly, neither Smith nor Bernoff were given time to comment again after the biotech rep spoke.

After hearing both sides, Dr. Oz announced that after the commercial break he would share the results of the poll that was conducted on DoctorOz.com.

Oz said…

“We asked you, ‘If given the choice between eating genetically modified foods and those that aren’t, which would you choose?’  Your answer when we return.”

–  Dr. Oz

Now, the data from the poll is truly significant (which I’ll share with you in a moment), but the defining moment of the show was when Oz gave his comments to the poll.

So after hearing from both sides, the side that says GMOs are safe (the biotech representative’s opinion) and the side that says there’s alarming reason for concern and therefore GMOs need to be labeled until more testing is done to prove their safety, because people should have a right to know what they are eating, and be able to choose not to buy GMO foods if they wish to avoid them, Oz closed the segment with words that rocked the world and started a media backlash, as some have called it.

Here’s what he said…

“We’re back, discussing what you can do about genetically modified food, today.

Now, when we took a poll online at DoctorOz.com, we found that overwhelming 91% of you would prefer purchasing NON-genetically modified food, if you were given the choice.

So, if you want to know if your food is genetically modified, I believe you should have that right.

Since I’m unaware of any sound data on long-term effects of genetically modified food in humans, that we learned today, I prefer to be cautious.”

 – Dr. Oz

With that statement, Americans who’ve been working to bring awareness to the potential dangers of GMOs happily rejoiced.

However, at the same time, it appeared that the biotech industry, (those that create GMO seeds and other GM foods for consumption) rushed to do ‘damage control’ because…

the “word on the street” went something like this “Oz did NOT make an endorsement statement.”

Now, if all you heard in the news was something like, “Oz did NOT endorse GMO labeling” or “Oz did NOT make an endorsement statement” then you could have easily been misled.

So, I’ve written this article to clear up the confusion and keep those in the media that are great at spinning a headline to sound like what didn’t happen did happen, from misleading you.

Let’s set the record straight, right now.

What Dr. Oz DID say is….

“We’re back, discussing what you can do about genetically modified food, today.

Now, when we took a poll online at DoctorOz.com, we found that overwhelming 91% of you would prefer  purchasing NON-genetically modified food, if you were given the choice.

So, if you want to know if your food is genetically modified, I believe you should have that right.

Since I’m unaware of any sound data on long-term effects of genetically modified food in humans, that we learned today, I prefer to be cautious.”

 – Dr. Oz

Now, below I’ve listed the  definitions of endorse and endorsement from Google, once again:

Despite what the media says… you can make your own conclusions…. but regardless of semantics and regardless of the words endorse and endorsement, I think we are all smart enough to know what Dr. Oz was saying when he said…

“We’re back, discussing what you can do about genetically modified food, today.

Now, when we took a poll online at DoctorOz.com, we found that overwhelming 91% of you would prefer purchasing NON-genetically modified food, if you were given the choice.

So, if you want to know if your food is genetically modified, I believe you should have that right.

Since I’m unaware of any sound data on long-term effects of genetically modified food in humans, that we learned today, I prefer to be cautious.”

 – Dr. Oz

The question is… Do YOU want to know what you’re eating?  Would you prefer, like Dr. Oz, to be cautious?

If you’d like to watch this Dr. Oz segment for yourself, while it is still up on DoctorOz.com you can watch it here.  It’s in a 3 Part video series, Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3. (If you click these links and get an error message, that means the videos of this episode of Dr. Oz are no longer available on his website.)

If you want to know more about GMO foods and the potential dangers as well as how to avoid them until they are labeled,  download our FREE mobile phone app for Android and APPLE devices.

The app is  packed with GMO facts, breaking news, videos, documentaries, independent research studies and more. Download the FREE Label GMO mobile phone app here.

And be sure to subscribe to our blog, too.

P.S. Corn and Soy are found in just about any food these days (soy oil, corn oil, vegetable oil, vegetable protein, natural flavors, MSG and even the little capsules that are veggie capsules are most probably from GMO ingredients… the list goes on and on).

P.P.S.  BT – GMO Corn (a type of GMO corn)  is genetically modified so that part of the DNA of a pesticide producing bacterium is infused into the DNA of corn.

When the plant grows the entire plant manufactures pesticide inside of each and every cell of the corn plant… yes, even the corn itself.

When a bug eats the corn, the pesticide causes the bug’s stomach to rupture.  Experts believe that this is linked to many of the digestive illnesses as well as the autoimmune diseases, ADHD, and autism that are occurring in massive numbers throughout the USA.

P.P.P.S. Click here to see video footage from a Peer-Reviewed, 2 Year, French Research Study on GMOs.

22 Responses

  1. look at skies (search chemtrails) fake clouds blocking sunlight… UK and USA govt’s put chemicals in tap water and food to dumb down population… this is fact…. sorry to pop your illusion.. please research everything mentioned

    May 9, 2013 at 6:53 pm

  2. The only way people will wake up about the dearngs is by having another big outbreak. One that the media isn’t paid not to report on- that is.There’s just too much money in it for Monsanto for anyone to stop them. You’ll be eating plenty of animals that never existed in nature soon. Get your fork. The latest wicked little batch combines goat, and spider genes to make a new super salmon(not kidding). Hmm I’ve never tasted spider before but its never too late to try with Monstano’s new gene/DNA recipe!As an added bonus the FDA says its illegal to label GMO salmon, because it might confuse you. I know in my heart they are doing it for us because they love us!Enjoy your fascism!

    January 18, 2013 at 10:25 am

  3. I gotta bookmark this website it seems invaluable very helpful

    December 13, 2012 at 6:14 am

  4. Wonderful article, I am going to bookmark Media Backlash: Dr. Oz and GMOs.

    November 4, 2012 at 3:49 pm

  5. Brilliant, thank you, I will subscribe to you RSS now!

    October 24, 2012 at 9:11 am

  6. Andy Reddin

    Anybody know a reference for the links between GM foods and diseases?

    “Experts believe that this is linked to many of the digestive illnesses as well as the autoimmune diseases, ADHD, and autism that are occurring in massive numbers throughout the USA.”

    I am pro-labelling for GM foods, but I try to verify the validity of arguments like that before sharing them.

    October 23, 2012 at 3:22 am

    • admin

      Yes, the best way to address references for all these things, in one place, is to watch the new documentary film Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives. Lucky for you (and the rest of us) it is available through online streaming for FREE from now until October 31st.

      You can view the entire documentary online by going to http://www.Genetic RouletteMovie.com or you can watch it through the mobile phone app that is available for FREE at http://AboutGMO.com The film is located under the tab “MUST-SEE” FILM #2 inside the app.

      Watch the film, then come back here and tell me what you thought of the movie. There’s reference to lots of impressive third party research and much more. After you finish watching it, come back and post again and I’ll give you a link to view some video footage of a Peer-Reviewed 2-year Long Research Study completed in 2012 conducted in France, the largest most comprehensive GMO study ever done in the world.

      October 23, 2012 at 3:43 am

      • Dr. Oz has done the public a great service by educating us on the Right to Know issue facing California. He has always shown great courage in his holistic approach to health and I greatly appreciate his efforts. Prop. 37 is a simple labeling issue that Monsanto and their cohorts do not want passed because they are afraid the public will not want their products. It will not cost farmers. It will not cost consumers. Thank you Dr. Oz and keep up the good work.
        Vote Yes on 37.

        October 23, 2012 at 7:32 pm

        • admin

          I could not have said it better. Thank you for posting your comment.

          October 23, 2012 at 11:43 pm

  7. Jules

    Honestly, what the GMO’s have done to us and the planet should land Monsanto and all of their shareholders in prison for life. It is morally wrong to poison and feed the food to us without our knowing.

    October 22, 2012 at 6:05 am

    • admin

      Yes, criminal to say the least… unconscionable, unthinkable and beyond belief.

      October 22, 2012 at 7:16 am

      • This is both street smart and itnelligent.

        January 16, 2013 at 4:14 am

    • The only way people will wake up about the drgneas is by having another big outbreak. One that the media isn’t paid not to report on- that is.There’s just too much money in it for Monsanto for anyone to stop them. You’ll be eating plenty of animals that never existed in nature soon. Get your fork. The latest wicked little batch combines goat, and spider genes to make a new super salmon(not kidding). Hmm I’ve never tasted spider before but its never too late to try with Monstano’s new gene/DNA recipe!As an added bonus the FDA says its illegal to label GMO salmon, because it might confuse you. I know in my heart they are doing it for us because they love us!Enjoy your fascism!

      January 15, 2013 at 7:54 pm

    • To Randy:First We all have a right to our opinions and poiassns,but living life in moderation means leaning from one side to the next instead of making a solid decission and being absolutely certain of what you stand for.Second What is fun or good about slaughtering a cow just so you can pack a cheeseburger in a picnic basket then eat it surrounded by nature and in front of countless other animals? Seems like quite an example of an oxymoron with an emphasis on the moronic aspect!Enjoy your life style being swayed by whatever wind blows you,I’ll stick with my poiassns and avoid all that good fun the other half are having.

      January 18, 2013 at 10:40 am

  8. nogmoever

    Thank you for a TRUTHFUL article. It seems to be getting harder and harder to find honest journalists these days. I applaud you.

    October 22, 2012 at 5:01 am

    • admin

      Thank you. Yes, unfortunately, real journalism is almost non-existent. But the worst part is, most people don’t realize it so they believe what they hear.

      October 22, 2012 at 7:13 am

      • It is absolutely depeict when you consider the number of folks who rely so heavily on grocery stores to stock their shelves with foods that are safe for their own and their families consumption,without ever reading the results of a food study or who think the store they frequent would never sell anything so toxic.In reality grocery stores are a business the goal is to make money.They want to avoid lawsuits and the loss of business,but they will sell most anything. If it’s not natural I don’t want it!To me there’s nothing at all about genetically modified or engineered that even sounds remotely close to being appetizing or even belonging in a phrase preceeding the word food.We have to stop this deception and not let ignorance and greed decide our fate.Who wouldn’t rather enjoy life,have fun and actually LIVE!?Hard to do when your sick.

        January 18, 2013 at 10:17 am

  9. Deanne Blackwell

    I am so angry at the fact this has been going on since the 90’s!!! How did I miss this bit of information.

    As a parent you want to give your children and yourself the best in nutrition. Thinking that it was good for my kids to eat fresh fruit and vegetables.

    This was NOT your choice to make for ME. If I had of known of this concerns later on in the future I would of never brought this food into my home.

    October 22, 2012 at 3:12 am

    • admin

      You’re not the only one who didn’t know of these dangers. There are many of us working hard to get the word out. Be sure to sign up for our RSS feed or our email notifications so you can continue to get the latest articles and news on the topic. It’s not easy to figure out what is safe… that’s why labeling GMOs is so important.

      BTW: If you have an Android or Apple mobile device be sure to get your FREE download of our LABEL GMO mobile phone app… it’s packed with GMO facts, videos and entire documentary films on this very important topic.

      Be sure to watch the movie GENETIC ROULETTE while it is still available FREE online. You’ll want to watch this ASAP so you have lots of time to share it with friends and family while it is still FREE, turns out it’s only FREE thru Oct 31st.

      If you live in California, tomorrow is the last day to register to vote! Californian’s get to vote during THIS ELECTION whether they want mandatory labeling of GMOs in the state of California… we need at least 7 million people to vote YES on Prop 37, so spread the word to all the people in California that you know… tell them to vote YES on Prop 37 and be sure to vote YES on Prop 37 if you live in California.

      Get registered to vote! … the deadline is Oct 22 (TOMORROW)… get a voter’s registration form at a Post Office or Public Li bray… it MUST BE POSTMARKED by TOMORROW, Oct 22nd. 2012.

      Together we are strong… if we all do a little we’ll spread the word and get GMOs labeled!

      October 22, 2012 at 4:29 am

      • You are right about GMO’s Its sad to say that I didn’t know. I only knew they weren’t good and I appreciate the reeviw since I had just a small idea of what GMO’s were.

        January 16, 2013 at 5:06 am

  10. Tasha

    Thank you so much for speaking out about the dangers of GMO’S. You rock!!!!

    October 22, 2012 at 2:23 am

    • admin

      Thanks! You rock too! Be sure to grab our mobile phone app if you have a smart phone so you can help to spread the word anywhere, anytime with anyone when you’re out and about!

      October 22, 2012 at 4:31 am