genetically modified to what?
Concerns surrounding this issue have sparked debates from nearly every field (no pun intended)- from environmentalists, health specialists, to scientists, everyone seems to have a significant position. While genetically modified foods (GMO's) have been on the market since the early 90’s, and make up the majority of produce at most grocery stores today, there remains to be a contentious attitude towards the practice.
I have to admit; in the past I have felt torn on this issue myself. Why? All I have to do is recall my “introduction” biology class at the local university. I clearly recall the lesson that fell right in between the nitrogen cycle and the human genome. The professor claimed, whole-heartedly, that genetically modified foods are completely safe and that we should trust the regulations that are in place that ensure the safety of our food. Then she coolly explained how tomato crops have been infused with the genetics of a sea creature, resulting in extreme temperature resistance (not to mention its ability to navigate against a strong current, and a stem that resembles a dorsal fin).
I don’t want to knock the regulating agencies that work hard to keep our food safe. But, mistakes do happen. Just think about the recent salmonella breakouts. How long did it take to determine the source? Wait, did they ever determine the source? Furthermore, think of how many ingredients that are allowed to be put into our food products as a main ingredients when they have been linked to deadly diseases: high fructose corn syrup or monosodium glutamate anyone? If the same regulating agencies allow that, what is stopping them from seriously questioning GMO issues?
Reading about genetically modified food on the web can also be quite the dumbfounding task- this blog excluded, of course. However, many agencies and health specialist remain vehemently opposed to GM foods, citing everything from poor safety testing1,to unintended, unknown effects on flora fauna biodiversity2, and economic concerns resulting from gene patents3.
So, whether some scientists are convinced of the dangers in GMO food, or not, I’ll continue to err on the side of caution. There is just enough concern out there about GMO foods to have me thinking of my children’s delicate bodies, lives, and their future on this planet.
james - operations
I have to admit; in the past I have felt torn on this issue myself. Why? All I have to do is recall my “introduction” biology class at the local university. I clearly recall the lesson that fell right in between the nitrogen cycle and the human genome. The professor claimed, whole-heartedly, that genetically modified foods are completely safe and that we should trust the regulations that are in place that ensure the safety of our food. Then she coolly explained how tomato crops have been infused with the genetics of a sea creature, resulting in extreme temperature resistance (not to mention its ability to navigate against a strong current, and a stem that resembles a dorsal fin).
I don’t want to knock the regulating agencies that work hard to keep our food safe. But, mistakes do happen. Just think about the recent salmonella breakouts. How long did it take to determine the source? Wait, did they ever determine the source? Furthermore, think of how many ingredients that are allowed to be put into our food products as a main ingredients when they have been linked to deadly diseases: high fructose corn syrup or monosodium glutamate anyone? If the same regulating agencies allow that, what is stopping them from seriously questioning GMO issues?
Reading about genetically modified food on the web can also be quite the dumbfounding task- this blog excluded, of course. However, many agencies and health specialist remain vehemently opposed to GM foods, citing everything from poor safety testing1,to unintended, unknown effects on flora fauna biodiversity2, and economic concerns resulting from gene patents3.
So, whether some scientists are convinced of the dangers in GMO food, or not, I’ll continue to err on the side of caution. There is just enough concern out there about GMO foods to have me thinking of my children’s delicate bodies, lives, and their future on this planet.
james - operations
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