GMO's Go Home?

GMO. It's not just a fancy nickname farmers use for their crops. It is a description of the TYPE of crop they are generating. A Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) is based on the principle of actually altering the genetic material of the organism's genome. Genetic material may be added, taken away, or simply rearranged to get the desired effect. This process has come into strong question by many groups because of the health potential this puts on the human species. Unnatural foods are being consumed at a rate never before seen in our history and the long-term effects are unknown. We look deeper into the issue to use logic to separate fact from fiction.

Recombinant DNA is when the genetic material is restructured, with new components added to the organisms original strand. What results is a transgenic organism, one that has a new genetic makeup, one that may behave differently than the original. If the transgenic organism is a plant, it may have a new color, or a resistance to harsh environmental conditions. Although this could help develop crops in areas where farming is difficult, debates have arisen on the safety of these for long term consumption. One area of concern is that of "horizontal gene transfer". This possibility is that the recombinant DNA from the plant is transferred into the organ tissue of the animal that is feeding on it. Studies have not yet shown this to be a major concern, however research is relatively new, and limited.

Most commonly seen is the "antibiotic resistance gene", which is used to increase resilience of crops to microorganisms. If the designed DNA of the plant were transferred to the bacteria feeding on it, there is the possibility that a "superbug", impervious to such antibiotics might result. One study from 2004 tested to see if the transgene from genetically modified soy would transfer to natural intestinal bacteria in the human body. Researchers concluded that gene transfer did not occur during the testing, although more research is likely to be looked upon as these foods become more prevalent in the world palate.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), does not require labeling of genetically engineered (GE) foods, which has raised eyebrows, considering that the product has been changed. Without knowing long-term consequences, some argue people should have the right to know if their food has been altered genetically. Many countries in Europe have GMO bans on products. The United States has not issued regulations, although pressure is increasing on the subject.

Simple research can tell you which foods found in your local market are likely to be genetically engineered. If you decide to consume those foods, at least you are making an educated, calculated decision on your health. Besides, it's your body, you have the right to eat what you want. One thing that can be stated confidently: Until we have better research, and long-term findings, the safety of such foods are unknown and should at minimum be labeled for consumer safety and decision making.