Studies have shown that certain crops--so-called "pharm crops"--have been genetically modified to produce proteins to promote healing for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, cirrhosis of the liver and specific antibodies that fight cancer. Conventional drugs are required to follow strict guidelines that prevent them from filtering into the food chain or contaminating the environment. On the other hand, at this time there are not any forms of control over the DNA sequence from pharm crops.
Most of the concerns of the GM contamination are centered on cross-pollination in the field, however authors speculate that contamination happens as a result of failing to keep GM and traditional seeds separate from each other during the manufacture and distribution process.
Researchers caution that until we know differently, it is critical to assume that any engineered sequencing of crops could potentially lead to a contaminated seed supply.
New Scientist February 23, 2004
Growing and consuming GM crops is similar to taking part in a large experiment because there is no telling what the consequences of the crops being produced will be.
One quick way to reduce the vast amounts of GM crops being grown in the United States is by passing mandatory labeling legislation. This would require manufacturers to place labels on the genetically modified food, as currently many consumers are unaware they are eating GM food. Ideally, this would prompt the manufacturer to switch to non-genetically engineered ingredients, the need for the GM crops would drop and farmers would stop growing them.
However, since the FDA has made the assumption that GM foods are equal to the original foods there are not any mandatory studies in place to have them approved.
This absence of guidelines or regulation of GM foods, plus the fact that there is no telling what effects these foods have on the body when consumed, is a dangerous risk to human health. It would be wise to try to avoid GM foods at all costs.
Unfortunately, this is becoming more and more difficult as even organic foods, which are supposed to be GM free, are becoming increasingly contaminated with GM crops.
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