GMOs, short for “genetically modified organisms,” are the result of laboratory processes that take genes from one species and transfer them into a different species in an attempt to obtain or remove a specific trait or characteristic. GMOs are also known as genetically modified organisms and transgenic organisms. Genetically modified organisms were not recognized until 1982, when the FDA approved the first genetically modified organism, Humulin, which is insulin produced by genetically modified E. coli bacteria. Then, in 1994, the FDA approved the first Flavr Savr tomato for sale in grocery stores, which had a much longer shelf life than regular tomatoes. Shortly thereafter, in 1996, GMO-resistant weeds appeared. GMO products don't stop at foods, but are also used in other products such as common garden plants, clothing, and medicines. Since their emergence, policies on GMOs and the labeling of products containing GMOs have been a source of great controversy both globally and nationally over whether these “scientific experiments” are harmful to the environment and the health of those who consume products that contain them. Today there are no restrictions or guidelines for products containing GMOs. Some think that there are no threats associated with GMOs, but it is a fact that products containing GMOs are potentially harmful to consumers and a strict labeling method should be adopted to inform consumers of what they are purchasing. I will argue that labeling of products containing genetically modified materials should be mandatory. Labeling of products containing genetically modified ingredients should be mandatory due to speculation about health, environmental impact and because being aware is a consumer's prerogative. A recent New Yo... middle of paper... there is no way to prove that these foods are truly safe long term. Whether non-GMO or pro-GMO, 90% of crops produced in the United States are genetically modified and 93% of Americans think GM products should be labeled because it is a consumer's right to know what they are buying and consuming. Why so much obscurity about genetically modified ingredients in the food industry? If these biotech companies and food manufacturers have nothing to hide about their crops and engineered foods, then stop labeling them. Sources http://gmoinside.org/gmo-timeline-a-history-genetically-modified-foods/ http:/ /www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/adoption-of-genetically-engineered-crops-in -the-us.aspx#.Uy30l_ldUpg http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/foodnut/09371 .htmlhttp://animalrights.about.com/od/animalsusedforfood/a/Arguments-For-And-Against -Geneically-Modified-Organisms.htm