Over the past few decades the labeling laws on food have become rather ambiguous, if not downright useless. This goes for our food as well as that of (all of) our furry friends.
Not Totally Paranoid
I don’t know about everyone else, but I don’t want genetically modified food (or meat from animals fed on the stuff) in my diet and I don’t want it in my pets diet either. First & foremost because we have no clue what it will do to us in 20 years time.
Good Labels & Bad Labels
The sad fact is this: avoiding GM products is a full time job. Every label must be read and every ingredient must be researched. The term ‘Natural’ no longer means anything in the world of food & can be used to market essentially any product. The term ‘organic’ on the other hand, still has some rules attached to it when it comes to genetic modification. Organic produce cannot be from GM seeds & organic meats cannot be fed GM feed.
That Goes for Hay Too
This longwinded speech has an point, and it is about horses. Alfalfa has joined the likes of corn & soy (two enormous offenders) as a GM crop. This is not only problematic to horse owners on a micro level, but it further endangers the already shaky foundation upon which organic products stand.
Your horse and the future of organic eating literally hang in the balance of this troubling issue.
Is Cheaper Food Really Cheaper?
I know, money is tight right now – that will always be an issue horse owners face. However, buying cheaper feed in lieu of higher priced organic hay could prove to be more expensive down the road. Consider that products which have been modified on a genetic level may not be very good for the health of your animal. Studies have shown potential reproductive problems in animals fed a GM diet – perhaps natures way of combatting our meddling? Either way, the additional cost of feeding your animal as close to nature as possible is not a sacrifice but rather a requirement of horse ownership. Their lives are artificial enough these days.
How You Can Help
Educate yourself about genetically modified products, the companies who make them and their effect on the natural world. You’ll be shocked & horrified at the extent of it. Avoid processed foods, read ingredients and choose organic wherever possible – you are not a lab rat and your loved ones and animals aren’t either. Organic (I call it ‘real’) doesn’t always look better, but it tastes better, is better for you and will make you & everyone you love feel better – all of which are priceless. Every dollar you spend is a vote – be sure to vote for the responsible ones.
Learn More
GM Free Ireland
Is your horse’s feed GM free?
calling all horse owners: stop GM Alfalfa!
Natural Matters Directory – Organic Horse Feeds
Greenpeace International’s info about GM & agriculture
Organic Horse Feed & Treats
Organic Horse Supplements
Organic Horse Products