Two pieces of legislation recently introduced in both the Minnesota House and Senate could soon make the Land of 10,000 Lakes the first in the nation to require the labeling of all foods that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs).  Ask Your Legislators to protect your right to know about GMO’s.  Contact them today [...]]]>

Two pieces of legislation recently introduced in both the Minnesota House and Senate could soon make the Land of 10,000 Lakes the first in the nation to require the labeling of all foods that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs).  Ask Your Legislators to protect your right to know about GMO’s.  Contact them today and let them know your Vote is for HF 850 and SF 821 which requires that the disclosure, “Produced With Genetic Engineering,” be displayed on food labels.

Nine out of ten Consumers want GM foods labeled; Right to Know Minnesota “Consumers want to know what’s in the food they buy, and some people want to know if it’s got GMO ingredients,” said Doug Peterson, head of MFU, to the Star Tribune in apparent support of national GMO labeling requirements.

Here are some of the Legislative and Congressional Members that you can contact:
John Kline - 2 - U.S. House  Amy Klobuchar - U.S. Senate  Al Franken - U.S. Senate

“This legislation is really a very moderate step. It doesn’t ban genetically modified ingredients. It just lets consumers know about them so they can make their own choices.”  read more here.

NxtNutrio is an App that scans barcodes and reveals GMO ingredients in everyday foods:  Until you understand what genetically modified organisms are, you might not understand how they effect your health and well-being NxtNutrio not only identifies foods that contain GMOs, but also gives you resources to learn more about GMOs when you’re ready to learn more about them.

In case you didn’t realize it, you’re surrounded by plastic–it’s inescapable.  However, a quick review of plastics may help you make wise choices about how you [...]]]>

Ever wonder what those numbers on plastic containers mean?  If you knew about the toxic chemicals that are used to produce plastics you would avoid plastic containers altogether.

In case you didn’t realize it, you’re surrounded by plastic–it’s inescapable.  However, a quick review of plastics may help you make wise choices about how you purchase and use plastics.

All plastics are marked with identifying numbers.  These numbers are placed on plastics to identify the polymer type.  They are also known by their abbreviated form of the petro chemicals from which they are derived, for example, #3 PVC Polyvinyl chloride.  The Society of the Plastics Industry resin identification coding system was introduced to make separation of the many similar-appearing plastic resin types easier for recycling.

Number 1 plastics 

PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) is used for soft drink containers, water and beer bottles, mouthwash bottles, peanut butter containers, salad dressings, vegetable oil containers, and oven safe food trays. Number 1 plastics pose a low risk of leaching breakdown products.  However, they are known to have a porous surface that allows bacteria and flavor to accumulate, so it is best to not reuse these bottles as containers.

Number 2 Plastics

HDPE (high density polyethylene) is found in milk jugs, juice bottles, liquid bleach containers, some brands of laundry and dish detergent containers, household cleaner bottles, everyday toiletry bottles such as shampoo, some brands of trash and shopping bags, motor oil bottles, butter and yogurt tubs, and cereal box liners. Containers made of number 2 plastics are usually opaque and generally considered safe. HDPE carries a low risk of leaching and is readily recyclable into many goods.

Number 3 Plastics

PVC (Vinyl) is found in the bottles that are made to hold window cleaner, detergent, shampoo, and cooking oil.  It is also found in clear food packaging for meats and cheeses, wire jacketing, medical equipment, siding, windows, and piping for plumbing.  PVC contains chlorine, so its manufacture can release highly dangerous dioxins.  Never microwave food in a number 3 container; remove the food from the plastic and place in a glass container, or completely avoid food products that are held by number 3 plastics.  According to the National Institutes of Health, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is commonly found in PVC, and is known to be a human carcinogen.  It has been found in milk and cheese in varying levels as a result of using wraps or containers that contain DEHP.  Never burn PVC, because it releases toxins.  This plastic often contains and can leach toxic phthalates.  Number 3 plastic is rarely accepted by recycling programs.

Number 4 Plastics

LDPE (low density polyethylene) is found in squeezable bottles and bags used for bread, frozen food, dry cleaning, grocery shopping.  It is also used in clothing, furniture and carpet.  Historically, LDPE has not been accepted through most American curbside recycling programs, but more and more communities are accepting it.

Number 5 Plastics

PP (polypropylene) is found in some yogurt containers, plastic bottles with a cloudy finish used for syrup, ketchup, medicine, and water as well as container caps, and straws.  Polypropylene has a high melting point, so is often chosen for containers that must accept hot liquid.  It is gradually becoming more accepted by recyclers.

Number 6 Plastics

PS (polystyrene) is one of the most widely used plastics and is found in disposable plates and cups, meat trays, egg cartons, carryout containers, aspirin bottles, and compact disc cases.  Polystyrene can be made into rigid or foam products, in which it is popularly known as the trademark “styrofoam.”  Evidence suggests polystyrene can leach potential toxins into foods; they are neurotoxic and carcinogenic to humans.  Additionally, the material has long been on environmentalists’ hit lists as it is very slow to biodegrade, and notoriously difficult to recycle.

 Number 7 Plastics 

OTHER or O includes acrylic, nylon, polycarbonate, polylactic acid, bioplastic and combinations of different plastics. They are the hard plastics used to make an epoxy resin.  One of their many uses is to line the interior of most cans containing food products.  Bisphenol A is polymerized to form polycarbonate plastic.  Studies have shown that this chemical can leach. Bisphenol A, a hormone disruptor that mimics estrogen, disrupts the endocrine system and has been linked to cancer, diabetes, obesity, early puberty, and obesity.  It is found in three and five gallon water bottles, certain food containers, ‘bullet-proof’ materials, sunglasses, DVDs, iPod, computer cases, signs, displays, and nylon.  Recycled paper stock, which includes approximately one half of the sales receipts in the U.S., and recycled cardboard stock are profoundly contaminated by bisphenol A. It is important to note that the skin absorbs chemicals more easily than ingesting chemicals–one more reason to wash your hands often!

A wide variety of plastic resins that don’t fit into the previous categories are lumped into number 7.  A few are even made from plants (polyactide) and are compostable. Food or drink containers made from #7 plastic are looked at with suspicion, as they are known to contain BPA.  The FDA continues to allow BPA to be used in food cans.

In summary, plastics #2, #4 and #5 are generally considered safe.  Plastic #1 is safe, but should not be reused due to the risk of growing bacteria.  All other plastics should be used with extreme caution, especially with or around food or drink.

Next up, whether you choose to re-use or refuse, we have tips for living with plastic.

The disclosure of the reports about 5-Hour Energy is the second time in recent weeks that Food and Drug Administration filings citing energy drinks [...]]]>

A caffeinated energy drink  like 5-Hour Energy shot and Monster Energy was cited as possibly linked to 13 deaths in reports received by U.S. officials over the last four years.

The disclosure of the reports about 5-Hour Energy is the second time in recent weeks that Food and Drug Administration filings citing energy drinks and deaths have emerged. Last month, the agency acknowledged it had received five fatality filings mentioning another energy drink, Monster Energy.

Since 2009, 5-Hour Energy has been mentioned in some 90 filings with the FDA, including more than 30 that involved serious injuries like heart attacks, convulsions and, in one case, a spontaneous abortion, a summary of FDA records reviewed by The New York Times showed.

Daniel Fabricant, the director of the FDA’s division of dietary supplement programs, said the agency was looking into the death reports that cited 5-Hour Energy.

The company does not disclose the amount of caffeine in each bottle in the U.S., but a recent article published by Consumer Reports placed that level at about 215 milligrams.

At NxtNutrio we are happy to see the increased awareness of Energy drinks. We take this a step further, NxtNutrio app can detect ingredients in Energy Drinks that you should avoid by marking the product with BIG RED X.

Seeking to reduce runaway obesity rates, the New York City Board of Health approved a ban on the sale of large sodas (Containers larger than 16 oz.)  and other sugary drinks at restaurants, mobile food carts, movie theater concessions, stadiums [...]]]>

NXTNUTRIO IS THE ONLY APP that can detect ingredients in foods that lead to obesity.

Seeking to reduce runaway obesity rates, the New York City Board of Health approved a ban on the sale of large sodas (Containers larger than 16 oz.)  and other sugary drinks at restaurants, mobile food carts, movie theater concessions, stadiums and deli’s the first restriction of its kind in the country.

7-Eleven will be exempt from this ban; remember they are the home of the refillable 32 oz. “Big Gulp” soda.  Also exempt are Diet Sodas, Coffee Drinks, milkshakes and alcoholic beverages.

The measure, championed by NY Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, is certain to intensify a growing national debate about soft drinks and obesity, and it could spur other cities to follow suit.  This ban is effective March 2013.

If we remember, Bloomberg persuaded the City Council to approve the ban on smoking in restaurants and bars.  This ban has been embraced by people all over the globe.  He also eliminated the use of artery clogging trans fats at NYC restaurants, and forced fast food businesses to post calorie counts on their menus.

At NxtNutrio we are happy to see the increased awareness of sugar in Soft drinks.  We take this a step further, NxtNutrio app can detect ingredients in processed foods that cause obesity.  Please see image below:

NxtNutrio we are happy to see the increased awareness of sugar in Soft drinks. We take this a step further, NxtNutrio app can detect ingredients in processed foods that cause obesity.

]]> http://www.nextnutrio.com/?feed=rss2&p=982 0 http://www.nextnutrio.com/?p=924 http://www.nextnutrio.com/?p=924#comments Tue, 17 Jul 2012 16:54:12 +0000 admin http://www.nextnutrio.com/?p=924 NxtNutrio is the only food app that identifies Non-GMO foods.  By scanning the bar codes of food products, NxtNutrio identifies the ingredients in foods that contain or May contain GMO’s.  The app also educates people about the potential harm from GMO ingredients.

While some food products already have the Non-GMO seal on their labels, others [...]]]>

NxtNutrio is the only food app that identifies Non-GMO foods.  By scanning the bar codes of food products, NxtNutrio identifies the ingredients in foods that contain or May contain GMO’s.  The app also educates people about the potential harm from GMO ingredients.

By scanning food product barcode, Nxtnutrio alerts consumers about Genetically Modified Food

While some food products already have the Non-GMO seal on their labels, others do not.  NxtNutrio clears up any confusion by identifying all ingredients in foods. NxtNutrio partnered with the Non-GMO Project in 2011.  The app clearly displays the Non-GMO Project seal on the iphone* screen for all products that do not contain GMO ingredients.

With one simple scan of a bar code, NxtNutrio detects all ingredients including chemicals, additives, and preservatives hidden in many brand name foods.  It gives specific information about each ingredient listed on the package, explains exactly what the ingredients are and how they can affect one’s health.  A green, yellow, or red symbol advises purchase, caution or alert decisions of whatever food item is scanned.

For people who want to avoid all GMOs, NxtNutrio is a powerful tool to give clear and concise information.  For those who don’t yet know what GMOs are, NxtNutrio is an educational tool giving current, objective information.  This gives people the power to make quick, and thoroughly informed decisions when purchasing food, and control over what they’re eating.

The vast majority of Americans want genetically modified food labeled.  And what’s the real reason foods cannot be labeled GMO free?

Labeling bills have been proposed in more than a dozen states over the past year.  An appeal to the Food and Drug Administration in late 2011 to nationally mandate labels [...]]]>

The vast majority of Americans want genetically modified food labeled.  And what’s the real reason foods cannot be labeled GMO free?

Labeling bills have been proposed in more than a dozen states over the past year.  An appeal to the Food and Drug Administration in late 2011 to nationally mandate labels drew more than one million signatures.

The FDA says that labeling genetically modified foods is generally not necessary because genetic modification does not materially change the food.  Although it may not change the taste, look or feel of the food, many studies have shown that genetically modified foods do indeed affect peoples’ health.

It all began in 1994, when the first GMO’s were approved in the US and the first tomato, called the Flavr Savr, began to be sold in the produce isles of local grocers.  Today, Flavr Savr tomatoes are no longer available, and for good reason, consumers refused to purchase them.  Many even complained of stomach cramping as a result of consuming them.

Studies have been conducted and reported upon.  We know how GMO’s affect laboratory animals. More and more people are diagnosed with cancer every day; cancer rates are increasing. The proof is evident.  Yet genetically modified foods continue to be produced.

The bottom line is that people want to know whether or not the foods they purchase are genetically modified.   If those  who are genetically modifying  crops for human and animal consumption (like Monsanto) have nothing to fear, then why do they fear labeling foods?

What’s scary is that for more than a decade, Americans have been eating GM Food without knowing it, because GM foods are not labeled.  Almost all processed foods in the United States — cereals, snack foods, salad dressings —contain ingredients from plants whose DNA was manipulated in a laboratory.  Almost all the corn and soybeans grown in the United States now contain DNA derived from bacteria. The foreign gene that makes the soybeans resistant to an herbicide used in weed control, and causes the corn to produce its own insecticide sounds like food for Frankenstein.

At NxtNutrio we live by “I need to know.”  We believe everybody has the right to know what is in the food, they purchase, which is why we created the NxtNutrio iPhone App.  It detects GMO’s in foods, notifying you when food is Non-GMO via the Non-GMO project seal.  NxtNutrio also alerts consumers when an ingredient may be a GMO.

Currently eight GMO crops are grown and approved for human consumption.  By knowing which ingredients contain those GMO crops, consumers can make informed decisions about whether or not they want to incorporate these questionable foods into their daily diets.

The most closely watched labeling effort will be taking place in California during the November 2012 vote that could influence not just food packaging but also the future of American agriculture.  If California passes November’s ballot, this may change what we eat.  We believe this will be a good thing. ;D

For more information, please refer to our Non-GMO blog.

We’re thrilled to see that ExperienceLife, an esteemed mainstream publication, covered  NxtNutrio honestly and thoughtfully.  It’s a big step forward in [...]]]>

The current issue of  ExperienceLife magazine, June 2012 features an article on NxtNutrio.  It is under  the Well Informed section. The article concludes with great information about the solutions offered by the NxtNutrio App.

We’re thrilled to see that ExperienceLife, an esteemed mainstream publication, covered  NxtNutrio honestly and thoughtfully.  It’s a big step forward in the effort to educate Americans about what’s happening to our food. To read the article, pick up a copy of the June 2012 issue (pictured at left), and flip to page 12.