 future-of-food future-of-food

 What are genetically modified foods?  “crop plants created for human or animal consumption using the latest molecular biology techniques.” (Whitman, 2000)  Used since late 1980’s Rapidly expanding around the world. Most common crops in the U.S.  Soybean, corn, cotton, canola

 Enhanced plant growth  Decreased pesticide and fertilizer use  Increased nutrient potential  Increased crop yields

 Emerging allergens  Herbicide-resistant weeds / “superbugs”  Ethical / moral concerns  Decreased biodiversity

 U.S. FDA “currently requires labeling of GE foods if the food has a significantly different nutritional property; if a new food includes an allergen that consumers would not expect to be present; or if a food contains a toxicant beyond acceptable limits.” (Byrne, 2007)  FDA proposed voluntary guidelines for labels in 2001

 Pros Consumer rights Identification of food issues Americans support mandatory labels At least 22 other countries require labels Ethical concerns  Cons Label may imply warning Increase costs to consumers GE-Free food already an option for consumers Difficult to separate