What’s really in your favorite fruits and veggies? Join Jeffrey M. Smith, executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, for his keynote address on the health risks of genetically modified foods as part of this weekend’s Earth Day festivities, Saturday, April 24, at 12:45 p.m. in front of the Old State Capitol.

Genetically modified foods, or GMOs, are engineered by scientists, who take genes from one species and insert them into another, in order to achieve desired traits, like herbicide resistance or the ability for a plant to produce its own pesticides.

Many commercial crops are genetically modified, such as corn, soy and zucchini, the Institute says. Meat, dairy and eggs are also susceptible, if they’re from animals that have eaten feed containing genetically modified corn and soy.

Smith will explore recent studies on the dangers of GMOs. Animals fed with genetically modified foods have seen various health problems, including potentially pre-cancerous cell growth, damaged immune systems and higher death rates. According to the Institute, the only feeding study using humans showed GMOs surviving inside their stomachs.

Currently, the U.S. produces eight GMO crops. However, brands like Whole Foods, Starbucks, Dannon and Yoplait have already taken steps to eliminate genetically modified ingredients due to customer concern.

Smiths says he’s working to educate the public, encouraging people to buy organic or non-GMO products.

“As consumers learn about the health risks associated with genetically modified foods, they immediately change their buying habits and purchase only non-GMO products,” he says. “Food companies and farmers in Illinois need to prepare, and lawmakers need to know the details so they can respond appropriately as leaders.” To learn more, visit NonGMOshoppingGuide.com.