Since the first genetically modified crop was introduced in 1994, the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Agriculture has been a hot topic of discussion globally. While the majority of research and international organizations have maintained a firm stance on the safety of GMOs for humans, some reports have pointed to the potential dangers of the modified crops. One major point of contention is the scientific consensus regarding the safety of GMOs. This idea was contested by a joint statement from a number of independent scholars, who claim that the consensus is fabricated and frequently propagated via several channels.
Supporting this perspective, another study revealed that many positive evaluations of GMO safety and Nutrition are conducted by people affiliated with Biotechnology firms that manufacture GM foods and seeds. A report by Healthline that examined whether GMO foods are unhealthy revealed that the majority of GMO crops are designed to be resistant to herbicides like Roundup. This enables farmers to get rid of weeds without harming their crops by using herbicides. However, studies conducted on animals and in test tubes have connected Roundup and its key ingredient, glyphosate, to various diseases.
Allergy and antibiotic resistance concerns with GMOs.
Recent evidence suggests that glyphosate exposure may raise the relative risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma by 41%, raising concerns over the long-term safety of herbicide-resistant genetically modified organisms. Another report by Medical News Today revealed that GMO foods may cause allergic reactions. Although the risk is minimal, it does exist when allergens are produced as a result of genetic changes. For instance, if a gene from a Brazil nut is introduced into a soybean, individuals with nut allergies might react to products made with the modified soybean.
As such, the report noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends against utilizing DNA from allergens unless it can be proven that the proteins produced via genetic engineering do not trigger allergic reactions. Another issue related to GMOs is antibiotic resistance. Some genetically engineered plants contain genes that confer resistance to specific antibiotics. Theoretically, if these genes are consumed by humans or animals, they could spread and cause antibiotic resistance. The WHO and other health authorities have set rules to mitigate this risk, even though the likelihood of this occurring is low.
Ecological and food security concerns linked to GMOs.
Old research by some food scientists raised concerns about the potential impact of food DNA on the immune system, suggesting that DNA could survive digestion and possibly affect human health. While small fragments of DNA can enter the bloodstream and body organs, there is little evidence to suggest this poses a risk. Moreover, the same old research suggested that GMO foods may affect the liver, kidneys, pancreas, or reproductive system, although it lacked conclusive evidence.
One of the environmental issues with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is the possibility of gene transfer to wild plants—a process known as outcrossing—which could have unforeseen ecological consequences. Also, there is continuous research and discussion regarding the effects on non-target species, like beneficial insects, and a decline in biodiversity. Beyond safety, a GREENPEACE report exemplifies Kenya as a case study to show how GMOs might lead to issues of Food Security and sovereignty. According to reports, GMOs may worsen food Insecurity by fostering cycles of reliance.
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For example, the high cost of GM seeds may lock smallholder farmers, who generate a large amount of Kenya’s food, in a cycle of debt and limit their ability to produce food for local consumption as they try to pay for seeds acquired through loans. This dependency can exacerbate food insecurity and undermine local agricultural practices in the region, it added. Over the years, numerous countries in Europe and Africa among others, have implemented bans or restrictions on the cultivation and importation of GMOs. These actions reflect a global movement to adopt GMOs with caution, motivated by a mix of socioeconomic, environmental, and health factors.