future-of-food future-of-food
TRANSCRIPT
http://www.hulu.com/watch/67878/the-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