Chapter 6

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding GMOs 

1. What is a genetically modified organism? 

Genetically modified organisms, commonly referred to as GMOs, can be defined as an organism whose genetic material (DNA) has been altered by the use of genetic engineering.

2. What is the purpose behind genetically modifying crops?

Plants and crops are normally genetically modified for two reasons. The first is to be able to live in the presence of an herbicide, which is a chemical that kills unwanted vegetation. The second is for the ability of the plant to produce its own insecticide to protect it against harmful pests.

3. When were GMOs first introduced?

Genetic engineering was first done in the 1980's specifically on tobacco plants. In the mid to late 1990's is when genetic engineering was first used on crops for consumption. In this case it was tomatoes. Since then the government has stated GMOs do not pose an inherent risk and other crops began using genetic engineering technologies. 

4. Can this process occur naturally?

Although often compared to selective breeding and natural selection, the process of genetically engineering a plant is not natural and cannot be done without scientific intervention. 

5. What crops are commonly genetically modified?

The most popular GM crops are corn, soy, canola, cotton, alfalfa, sugar beets, and papaya. More than 85% of all the crops listed in the United States have been genetically modified.

6. Are GM products labeled?

In the United States there are no laws requiring companies to label if their products contain GMOs. An attempt to change this was seen in 2012 in California when Proposition 37 was added to the ballots. The proposition stated that all raw and processed foods would be required to label if GMOs were present and would prohibit them from being advertised as natural. 51.4% of the voters said NO, so the law was not passed. In order for a person to be sure they are not consuming GMOs the products must be distinctly labeled "organic".

7. Is consuming genetically modified organisms safe?

To date there have been no studies conducted that show consuming genetically modified foods is any less safe than eating organic foods. Many studies that have claimed to show this link have either been scientifically disproved or lack sufficient evidence.

8. What are some grocery store products that contain GMOs?

Canned soup, frozen foods, sweetened juices, cereal, soda, baby formula, tofu, as well as vegetable and canola oils. 

9. Where can I get more information about GMOs?

There are many websites out there advertising false information regarding genetically modified foods. If you wish to get accurate, unbiased, scientific information it is important to look at primary literature written by academic scientists. 

10. What are some reliable websites?

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002432.htm
http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/science/gmfoods/
http://www.who.int/foodsafety/areas_work/food-technology/faq-genetically-modified-food/en/