If you still think genetically-engineered crops are hazardous to your health, now might be a good time to change your mind. US scientists have published a new report claiming that genetically-engineered crops are not only safe to eat but are also beneficial for humans and the environment in general.
Safe And Sound
The report, which is currently posted on The National Academies Press, is the brainchild of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The report's most basic conclusion is that genetically-engineered crops are safe for humans and animals to eat. GE foods have not been shown to cause increases in allergies, gastrointestinal illnesses, kidney diseases, cancer and obesity.
"I would certainly hope the report will reduce public concern about the safety of GE foods," food science expert Ruth MacDonald told NBC News. "This is yet another document that adds to the long list of those that have reached the same conclusion that there is no evidence that GE foods are a risk to human health."
GE Foods Are Animal-Friendly Too
Aside from humans, animals have also been found to benefit from genetically-engineered crops. The report specifically debunked the myth that GE foods caused the slow extinction of monarch butterflies.
On the contrary, the monarch population has seen a moderate increase in the last two years, despite the country's heavy reliance and production of GE foods. Nevertheless, scientists don't want to be complacent. They recommend that there should be continuous study on the situation.
Less Insecticide
Scientists also concluded that genetically-engineered crops have caused farmers to use less insecticide while tending to their harvest. However, the indulgent use of insect-resistant crops might encourage the development of herbicide-resistant pests.
Critics Are Not Convinced
Sectors who openly oppose the idea of genetically-engineered crops bashed the report for being partial and having ulterior motives. A spokesperson for Food & Water Watch told USA Today that the scientists who submitted the report have close ties with the biotech industry and other big-named corporations. This link creates a cloud of doubt about the independence of the work.
