Manuel/Sheppard GGS 12
How do you know? Food labels in Canada do not have to identify ingredients that have been genetically modified.
Any food product that has had its genetic make-up (DNA) altered to exhibit traits that are not natural. A food product is also considered genetically modified if it contains any GM food ingredients. Why? To obtain new crops/products with desirable characteristics.
Concerns about GM seeds:
‘Flavr Savr’ Tomato First Approved GM Food (1994) Altered the genes responsible for producing the ripening enzyme. Super Salmon Genes from flounder to increase growth rate and lower fat content. Golden Rice Insertion of genes to create beta-carotene which produces vitamin A in the body.
‘Round Up Ready’ Soybean, Canola, Corn, Sugar Beet Insertion of a gene to make the crop resistance to weed killer, ‘round up.’ Round Up Ready crops produced by Monsanto, the same company that produces Round Up. Bt Corn, Cabbage, Cotton Insertion of bacterium, Bt, that makes a toxin that kills many insects.
Genetically Modified Genetically Modified Grown Naturally Grown Naturally
Mandatory GM Labelling: Australia New Zealand Japan China Europe Voluntary GM Labelling: Canada and the USA Canada
The US and Canadian governments do not allow manufacturers to label something organic if that food has been genetically modified or been fed genetically modified feed.
GM foods (seeds and/or gene construct) can be patented by the companies who create them. Patents give them the legal right to control their use. Monsanto produces 91% of all GM seeds.
PROS (Benefits)CONS (Risks)
Resistant to insects & disease Hardiness or adaptability to different climates (drought resistant, cold resistant) Bigger, resulting in higher yield Better taste, smell, and appearance Higher nutrient content Grows faster & lasts longer Cost efficient & beneficial
Allergies Outcrossing Alter Ecosystems Endanger Species Increased Use of Chemicals on Crops Patenting Crops Ethical Implications Creates Surplus Lack of Labeling Laws