Did you know that we are approaching a world population of 7 billion people? We already know that the world is full of hungry people, how are we going to feed them all? How can we make sure that everyone is getting the proper nutrition they need to lead a healthy, happy life? For some, the answer is in genetically modified (GM) foods. Others assert, GM foods are the problem not the solution. So which is it? Are GM foods safe? If not, what are the risks involved?
When you walk into a Fry's in Prescott, Arizona even in the middle of January, you will undoubtedly find tomatoes for sale. Even if it is 10 degrees outside. this is very convenient if you like tomatoes, but how can this be? How is it that a warm weather fruit can be purchased at almost any time of the year anywhere in the USA? Some would say it is because these fruits have been genetically engineered to resist spoiling, pests, and to travel long distances. Great... but are they safe? Even more important, forget safety... how do they taste? GM food is not only found in fresh produce. The truth is up to 70% of packaged food on grocery shelves is said to contain GM ingredients. Staples like corn, canola, and soybeans in particular are genetically modified in mass quantities.
The agricultural industry has benefited from genetically modified organisms. By manipulating the DNA in certain crops, scientists have been able to increase production, save money, and cut losses caused by insects and other pests. GM foods could even reduce environmental damage if an organism is genetically engineered to require less water. If a GM product is genetically engineered to resist pests, it would reduce the need to rely on dangerous pesticides, thus making it even safer.
GM foods could even solve world health problems. For example, in parts of Asia there is a serious problem with vitamin A deficiency, resulting in blindness. Currently scientists are working on modifying staples like rice to contain certain essential nutrients, including vitamin A. This "Golden Rice", advocates say, will solve the problem in Asia.
Or Will it?
Those in opposition to GM foods point out several concerns. Just how safe are GM foods? Well, we know that in order to mass market these GM products the FDA and USDA have to examine them first. Detractors point out that international Corporations like Monsanto have a large stake in biotechnology and have therefore exerted heavy political pressure on government agencies. Although the FDA asserts that there is no danger in GM foods and that they are no different in terms of health risk and nutritional value than non-GM foods, many scientists disagree. Many experts have claimed that adequate testing has not been done. Some studies have shown that allergic reactions, antibiotic resistance, and toxicity may be increased in GM products.
There are also environmental problems involved. Contamination of conventional crops has been a well documented phenomenon. In some cases GM crops may negatively impact ecosystems. Some scientists even worry about genetically altered "super weeds."
Some in opposition to Genetically modified products have even accused corporations invested in biotechnology of unethical practices. Some organic farmers have inexplicably found their crops contaminated with genetically modified pollen. There are even farmers who have been sued by bio tech corporations seeking royalties when this GM pollen is found on conventional or organic farms.
Many people simply do not trust GM food because they do not understand the science behind it. Many would argue "Don't mess with Mother Nature." But what if these "miracle foods" could actually solve hunger problems? Is it possible that many people just have a fear of the unknown and are worrying about something they do not understand? Still many would point to cancer rates or new diseases and question the role of GM foods.
One thing is for sure, many of the foods we will buy this week have been genetically modified., and we will not find that fact written on the label. Why not?
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