GMO - Safe of Unsafe?

There is a great debate going on right now on the subject of genetically modified foods, or GMOs. The development of genetic modification involves inserting a gene from bacteria or a virus (or a gene that helps plants survive the application of highly toxic pesticides) into an organism where it would normally not be found. The idea is to alter the genetic code in plants and animals to make them more productive or resistant to pests or farming techniques, like being doused with chemicals that would ordinarily kill them.

Genetically modified food has quietly become second nature in the U.S. and it may surprise you just how many foods you are eating that you never knew contained a generically modified ingredient. GMO foods have been on the market for nearly 20 years, since 1996. During those years, most of us have eaten GMOs in many foods, from soybeans, beef, dairy products, corn, beets, sugar, cottonseed, and rapeseed. Experts say 60% to 70% of processed foods on U.S. grocery shelves have generically modified ingredients. The U.S. government’s position: genetically engineered crops are safe, resist disease better, and can provide much-needed food in starving nations.

The question is, are GMOs safe for us and the environment? Actually, the answers are not clear. There are raised concerns about GMO foods, and criticized agribusiness for pursuing profit without concern for potential hazards, and the government for failing to exercise adequate regulatory oversight. It seems that everyone has a strong opinion about GMOs. Most concerns about GMOs fall into three categories: environmental hazards, human health risks, and economic concern.

To label or not to label has also been a hot button with consumer advocacy groups. Currently, food companies aren't required by law to label foods containing genetically modified ingredients, so it's no surprise that most Americans don't know they've eaten them. One reason food companies may shy away from labeling genetically modified food is the possibility of consumer rejection. Our country is based on a free market economy. If you are supplying a product and we don't want it, then the market dictates it will go away. This is why the biotech companies and food manufacturers will probably spend over 25 million dollars to prevent the labeling of GMOs. If their products are beneficial and safe, why not label them? Why not be proud of your product? Over 60 countries, including China, label GMOs and some countries ban them. Why can't we have transparency in our food supply?

Genetically modified foods have the potential to solve many of the world's hunger and malnutrition problems, and to help protect and preserve the environment by increasing yield and reducing dependence upon chemical pesticides and herbicides. Yet there are many challenges ahead for governments, especially in the areas of safety testing, regulation, international policy and food labeling. Many people feel that genetic engineering is the inevitable wave of the future and that we cannot afford to ignore a technology that has such enormous potential benefits. However, we must proceed with caution to avoid causing unintended harm to human health and the environment as a result of our eagerness for this powerful technology.

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