Soy is one of the most genetically modified foods on the market. Estimates are that over 90 percent of the soy available today has been genetically modified. Yet the FDA does not require food manufacturers to list whether the soy in its product has been genetically modified.

What you may not know is that genetically modified food has had its DNA altered. This is accomplished by inserting specific genes into the DNA of the plant. In the case of soy, scientists have inserted a gene that makes the soy plant resistant to pesticides.

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Why would the industry allow this? Because in order to control weed growth and maximize crop yield, soy farmers can liberally spray pesticides in their fields to kill the weeds. The herbicide will not harm genetically modified soy plants.

Though I haven’t seen any studies to confirm it, you’d think that spraying toxic herbicide on a food-yielding plant would mean that the toxic residue makes its way into the final consumer product.

It’s not easy to avoid genetically modified soy, as the FDA has not mandated proper labeling of it. However, you can look for organic products (which are not allowed to have genetically modified soy in them) and products labeled as containing non-modified soy.

Generally, a product that does not use genetically modified soy will be labeled as such. If the label does not specify the source, assume it is derived from modified soy.

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Soy is not a healthy food. Ingestion can cause serious problems with the thyroid gland, as well as hormonal imbalances, infertility, and immune system problems. It is best avoided.

My book, The Soy Deception, goes into much more detail about the soy industry and the many health issues with soy. Furthermore, it gives the reader much more information about which foods contain soy and how to avoid it in your diet.

Stay away from soy. You and your family will be healthier for it.