Why Food in Europe Feels Different

I just returned from three months in Europe, and one thing stood out above everything else: the food. The bread, the pasta, the olive oil it all tasted like real food. In Europe, the food supply is rooted in a non-GMO standard, and you can feel the difference. I’ve always eaten gluten-free in the U.S. to avoid stomach issues, yet in Europe I could enjoy pasta and bread without discomfort.

It’s hard to believe that here in the U.S., we still haven’t figured this out. Back in 2012, Whole Foods announced they would only carry non-GMO products within five years, pushing brands to rethink their ingredients. But today, over 90% of U.S. corn and soy is genetically modified, showing up in cooking oils, processed foods, snacks - even animal feed. Labeling is still limited, which makes avoiding GMOs nearly impossible unless you deliberately buy organic or Non-GMO Project verified.

This reality puts us at a disadvantage. Without a clear non-GMO standard, Americans face extra barriers to accessing truly clean food. Which means we must be more intentional about what we eat and how we source it.

Because food isn’t just fuel it shapes our energy, our mood, and our overall well-being. When we choose quality and clarity in what we consume, we empower ourselves to show up better - to our families, in our work, and in our leadership.

The truth is this: every bite is a vote. When we demand better, we drive change, not just for our own health, but for the future of food itself. The question is: are you reading labels, and where do you stand on non-GMO?

To your vitality, 

Lizanne