Health
FDA Approves Genetically Engineered Potatoes, Apples as Safe
This May 10, 2013 file photo shows a genetically engineered potato poking through the soil of a planting pot inside J.R. Simplot’s lab in southwestern Idaho. Potatoes that won’t bruise and apples that won’t brown are a step closer to grocery store aisles. (AP Photo/John Miller, File)
MARY CLARE JALONICK, Associated Press
KEITH RIDLER, Associated Press
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Potatoes that won’t bruise and apples that won’t brown are a step closer to grocery store aisles, but some food suppliers say they don’t want any part of it and others are staying silent.
The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved the genetically engineered foods, saying they are “as safe and nutritious as their conventional counterparts.”
The approval covers six varieties of potatoes by Boise, Idaho-based J. R. Simplot Co. and two varieties of apples from the Canadian company Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc.
Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, refers to food grown from seeds that are genetically engineered in a lab. Aware of potential resistance from consumers, Simplot officials say Innate potato traits come exclusively from genes from domestic potato varieties.
However, one of the company’s oldest business partners — McDonald’s — said it won’t use the potatoes.
“McDonald’s USA does not source GMO potatoes nor do we have current plans to change our sourcing practice,” the company said in a statement Friday.
Burger King and Wendy’s declined to comment.
Okanagan, based in British Columbia, wants to make apples a more convenient snack with its non-browning version. The company says bagged apples wouldn’t have to be washed in antioxidants like they are now, a process that can affect taste. Company founder Neal Carter said Okanagan wants to see bagged apples become as prolific as bagged baby carrots.
“We know that in a convenience-driven world, a whole apple is too big of a commitment,” Carter said.
The apples are dubbed Arctic Apples, and Carter said he wants them to be labeled as such. The first two varieties will be Granny Smith and Golden Delicious. Carter said there won’t be significant plantings until 2017.
Simplot calls its potatoes Innate and the varieties selected include Ranger Russet, Russet Burbank and Atlantic.
“We’re trying to improve potatoes so everyone gets a better experience, just like it’s right out of the field,” said Haven Baker, vice president of plant sciences for Simplot.
But it could be years before the average customer is able to buy one. The company has about 400 acres of Innate potatoes in storage from the 2014 harvest that it plans to deliver to growers, packers and shippers to be sent to a tightly-controlled network for use in small-scale test markets.
The company said those markets haven’t been determined, and it’s not clear how the potatoes will be labeled. The company said it’s not selling Innate seed potatoes on the open market.
ConAgra, a major French fry and potato supplier through Lamb Weston to restaurant chains, said it won’t use the potatoes.
“All Lamb Weston frozen potato products are made with non-GMO potatoes, in line with customer demand,” a company statement said.
Food supplier McCain in a statement said its policy is to not use GMO potatoes. But the company also said it recognized the challenge of producing affordable food to meet demand and planned to monitor and possibly participate in research.
“Regulatory compliance and consumer acceptance for the use of any new technology will guide our actions,” the company said.
Simplot says its potatoes will have 70 percent less acrylamide, a chemical that can be created when potatoes are cooked at high temperatures. And it’s touting that as a health benefit, as some studies have shown acrylamide to be a potential carcinogen, though the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health says scientists “do not yet know with any certainty” whether the substance can be harmful in food.
The FDA in its approval Friday noted that acrylamide has been found to be a carcinogenic in rodents.
Simplot says its potatoes have 40 percent less bruising from impacts and pressure during harvest and storage then conventional potatoes, which the company said could reduce the more than 3 billion pounds of potatoes discarded yearly by consumers.
The FDA’s review process is voluntary, but both companies asked for one. To review, FDA compares safety and data of the GMO food in comparison to conventional variety.
Gregory Jaffe, biotechnology director for the Center for Science in the Public Interest, in a statement Friday objected to the voluntary system for approving GMOs and said legislation is needed to make it mandatory.
____
Jalonick reported from Washington. AP Food Industry Writer Candice Choi contributed in New York.
Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Commentary
NPRC Elder Justice Symposium Invites Community to Join Effort to Protect Alameda County Elders
“Two of our most vulnerable populations are elders and the disabled, and many times that combination resides in one individual,” said Tanya Dennis, lead facilitator of NPRC. “At our symposium, NPRC will bring decision makers and elders together in one space for a day to develop strategy and policy to protect and empower.”
The National Probate Reform Coalition (NPRC) will host an Elder Justice Symposium on Friday, Sept. 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Oakland City Hall, bringing elders, families, advocates, policymakers and community leaders together to address elder abuse, financial exploitation and problems within probate and conservatorship systems.
The symposium is designed to inform and empower the community while developing strategies and policies to better protect Alameda County’s vulnerable elders and disabled residents.
“Two of our most vulnerable populations are elders and the disabled, and many times that combination resides in one individual,” said Tanya Dennis, lead facilitator of NPRC. “At our symposium, NPRC will bring decision makers and elders together in one space for a day to develop strategy and policy to protect and empower.”
Dennis said NPRC has drafted proposed legislation intended to make conservatorship a true last resort by adding safeguards before and after a petition is filed. Proposals include mandatory private mediation before entering probate and placement of an ombudsman in probate proceedings to advocate for the rights and interests of prospective or current conservatees.
The coalition also wants stronger protections for elders’ estates and assets, arguing that money accumulated over a lifetime should be preserved for elders, families and intended beneficiaries rather than unnecessarily depleted by court-related expenses.
NPRC meets monthly through Zoom and has expanded into a national coalition because elder abuse, financial exploitation and guardianship and conservatorship concerns extend well beyond Alameda County.
“Members share horror stories of being isolated from their parents and children, many times physically abused and overmedicated; seeing estates drained for court costs, and assets that parents spent decades saving to leave a legacy depleted instead and going to strangers,” said Venus Gist, an NPRC co-facilitator and former victim of the probate system. Gist said she spent more than $80,000 trying to protect her parents’ estate.
“Eighty thousand dollars is nothing compared to the people in our group losing millions and having to sell their businesses and homes to pay court fees,” she said.
The symposium will also examine forms of elder exploitation including telephone scams, bank fraud, identity theft, family financial abuse and exploitation by trusted individuals. Participants will learn to recognize warning signs involving caregivers, financial professionals, health and social service workers, attorneys and guardians.
NPRC is seeking a California lawmaker willing to champion legislation that strengthens elder protections and increases accountability in the conservatorship process.
The symposium follows Supervisor Nate Miley’s 23rd Annual Healthy Living Festival on Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Oakland Zoo. The free event for adults 55 and older will feature health screenings, vaccinations, nearly 100 community resource booths, lunch, entertainment and complimentary zoo admission for eligible attendees.
Dennis said the two events offer a comprehensive two-day focus on elder well-being.
“The health fair will cover the physical care of our elders, and the next day NPRC’s symposium will cover the mental and social health,” Dennis said. “Together, we are offering a comprehensive two days of care for Alameda County elders.”
Both events are free, and advance registration is recommended because space is limited. Community members, elders, families, advocates and public officials are encouraged to participate. Breakfast and lunch will be served at both events.
For registration: Sign-up is required via Supervisor Nate Miley’s Eventbrite page NPRC registration is https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elder-justice-symposium-tickets-1998385423597?aff=oddtdtcreator
Commentary
Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50
INDIANAPOLIS RECORDER — Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast features hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon in conversation with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health. Hungate, a biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, discusses reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health beyond age 50.
Strength doesn’t disappear when you turn 50- it evolves. Just as growth is a lifelong journey, becoming stronger happens every day. The second half of life is not the beginning of decline; it is the horizon of a stronger, healthier, more confident, and happier version of yourself.
In Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast, hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon sit down with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health, biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, for a compelling conversation on reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health after 50.
Drawing from his professional expertise and extraordinary life experiences, Joel challenges many of the myths surrounding aging and demonstrates that the years after 50 can be filled with purpose, adventure, and renewed strength.
The Door Doesn’t Shut at Your Second Half
One of the most memorable moments from the conversation came when Joel Hungate shared a simple yet profound truth:
“The door doesn’t shut at 50.”
Far too many people believe that once they reach the second half of life, opportunities begin to disappear. Joel offers a refreshing perspective, reminding viewers that age does not determine potential. Instead, the years after 50 present an opportunity to reflect on your experiences, redefine your purpose, and confidently pursue new goals.
Whether you’ve always wanted to travel, learn a new skill, improve your health, or simply become the best version of yourself, your second half is not a limitation; it’s an invitation.
Watch the first short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uTp_tFVgb55Ux1GWmQnLRHp2YTVdl68k/view?usp=drivesdk
Find a Version of Strength Training That Works for You
When people hear the words strength training, many immediately picture lifting heavy weights in a gym. Joel Hungate believes strength looks different for everyone.
You don’t need an expensive fitness membership to become stronger. Walking after dinner, climbing stairs, carrying groceries, hiking with friends, cycling, resistance exercises, or simply staying physically active can all help build strength and preserve independence as you age.
Joel encourages people 50 and over to find a form of movement they genuinely enjoy because consistency not intensity, is what transforms health over time. One practical habit he recommends is taking a walk after dinner, a simple routine that benefits both physical health and overall wellbeing.
Watch the second short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/188dzfMoEbNOxzjXxde2-j4xochFL8lHQ/view?usp=drivesdk
A Way Out of the Frailty Epidemic
Frailty has become one of the greatest health challenges affecting those over 50, yet many people don’t realize that it is not an inevitable part of aging.
During the conversation, Joel explains how maintaining muscle strength, staying active, and making intentional lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of frailty while supporting healthy weight management.
Rather than accepting weakness as a normal part of growing older, he challenges listeners to adopt habits that preserve mobility, resilience, and independence for years to come.
If you’ve ever wondered how to stay strong and capable well into your later years, this conversation offers practical insights that could change the way you think about aging.
Watch the third short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/13BJIGBE68IsEoA3sVaAT8UIBEpepq6A7/view?usp=drivesdk
Eating Better Isn’t the Goal for a Healthy You- Here’s What Is
One of Joel’s most thought-provoking statements during the episode was:
“When we think health is an end goal, it never works.”
Health is not a destination that we eventually arrive at, it is a lifelong journey shaped by daily decisions.
Joel explains that while nutritious eating is important, lasting health is built through a combination of purposeful movement, meaningful relationships, quality sleep, continual learning, and embracing new adventures. Healthy living is about creating a lifestyle that allows you to enjoy life, not simply following another diet.
This refreshing perspective encourages viewers to shift their focus from chasing perfection to building sustainable habits that support long-term wellbeing.
Watch the fourth short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PjaysWUmBOTQunVBqQb6KcgKPHEUL5qM/view?usp=drivesdk
More Than a Conversation- A Blueprint for Living Stronger
Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast is more than an inspiring discussion- it is a practical guide for anyone determined to thrive after 50.
Joel Hungate shares expert insights, personal experiences, and actionable advice that challenge outdated beliefs about aging. His message is clear: strength doesn’t fade with age unless we stop investing in it.
If you’re ready to eliminate the fear of frailty, build lasting confidence, and embrace the adventure that awaits in the second half of life, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.
Watch the full episode now and discover how to grow stronger after 50.
For more, visit indianapolisrecorder.com.
The post Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50 appeared first on Indianapolis Recorder.
Based on reporting by Indianapolis Recorder.
Commentary
Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50
INDIANAPOLIS RECORDER — Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast features hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon in conversation with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health. Hungate, a biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, discusses reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health beyond age 50.
Strength doesn’t disappear when you turn 50- it evolves. Just as growth is a lifelong journey, becoming stronger happens every day. The second half of life is not the beginning of decline; it is the horizon of a stronger, healthier, more confident, and happier version of yourself.
In Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast, hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon sit down with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health, biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, for a compelling conversation on reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health after 50.
Drawing from his professional expertise and extraordinary life experiences, Joel challenges many of the myths surrounding aging and demonstrates that the years after 50 can be filled with purpose, adventure, and renewed strength.
The Door Doesn’t Shut at Your Second Half
One of the most memorable moments from the conversation came when Joel Hungate shared a simple yet profound truth:
“The door doesn’t shut at 50.”
Far too many people believe that once they reach the second half of life, opportunities begin to disappear. Joel offers a refreshing perspective, reminding viewers that age does not determine potential. Instead, the years after 50 present an opportunity to reflect on your experiences, redefine your purpose, and confidently pursue new goals.
Whether you’ve always wanted to travel, learn a new skill, improve your health, or simply become the best version of yourself, your second half is not a limitation; it’s an invitation.
Watch the first short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uTp_tFVgb55Ux1GWmQnLRHp2YTVdl68k/view?usp=drivesdk
Find a Version of Strength Training That Works for You
When people hear the words strength training, many immediately picture lifting heavy weights in a gym. Joel Hungate believes strength looks different for everyone.
You don’t need an expensive fitness membership to become stronger. Walking after dinner, climbing stairs, carrying groceries, hiking with friends, cycling, resistance exercises, or simply staying physically active can all help build strength and preserve independence as you age.
Joel encourages people 50 and over to find a form of movement they genuinely enjoy because consistency not intensity, is what transforms health over time. One practical habit he recommends is taking a walk after dinner, a simple routine that benefits both physical health and overall wellbeing.
Watch the second short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/188dzfMoEbNOxzjXxde2-j4xochFL8lHQ/view?usp=drivesdk
A Way Out of the Frailty Epidemic
Frailty has become one of the greatest health challenges affecting those over 50, yet many people don’t realize that it is not an inevitable part of aging.
During the conversation, Joel explains how maintaining muscle strength, staying active, and making intentional lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of frailty while supporting healthy weight management.
Rather than accepting weakness as a normal part of growing older, he challenges listeners to adopt habits that preserve mobility, resilience, and independence for years to come.
If you’ve ever wondered how to stay strong and capable well into your later years, this conversation offers practical insights that could change the way you think about aging.
Watch the third short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/13BJIGBE68IsEoA3sVaAT8UIBEpepq6A7/view?usp=drivesdk
Eating Better Isn’t the Goal for a Healthy You- Here’s What Is
One of Joel’s most thought-provoking statements during the episode was:
“When we think health is an end goal, it never works.”
Health is not a destination that we eventually arrive at, it is a lifelong journey shaped by daily decisions.
Joel explains that while nutritious eating is important, lasting health is built through a combination of purposeful movement, meaningful relationships, quality sleep, continual learning, and embracing new adventures. Healthy living is about creating a lifestyle that allows you to enjoy life, not simply following another diet.
This refreshing perspective encourages viewers to shift their focus from chasing perfection to building sustainable habits that support long-term wellbeing.
Watch the fourth short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PjaysWUmBOTQunVBqQb6KcgKPHEUL5qM/view?usp=drivesdk
More Than a Conversation- A Blueprint for Living Stronger
Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast is more than an inspiring discussion- it is a practical guide for anyone determined to thrive after 50.
Joel Hungate shares expert insights, personal experiences, and actionable advice that challenge outdated beliefs about aging. His message is clear: strength doesn’t fade with age unless we stop investing in it.
If you’re ready to eliminate the fear of frailty, build lasting confidence, and embrace the adventure that awaits in the second half of life, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.
Watch the full episode now and discover how to grow stronger after 50.
For more, visit indianapolisrecorder.com.
The post Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50 appeared first on Indianapolis Recorder.
Based on reporting by Indianapolis Recorder.
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