According to the internet, GMOs are responsible for a lot of problems. You’ve heard that they cause almost everything, including weight gain, acne, allergies, eczema, asthma, and maybe even cancer. They’re killing the bees, the butterflies … And I’m hearing they’re also responsible for dementors, wingardium leviosa, and Voldemort.
…[b]ut what’s the truth? Let’s look at 10 common beliefs about GMOs — and why they’re wrong.
1. There is a big difference between laboratory genetic modification and natural modification.
…Traditional breeding methods, including hybridization or selective breeding, are what we think of as “natural” breeding. These are done for a variety of reasons…[b]ut make no mistake, this drastically alters the DNA of the seeds….
Unlike traditional breeding, though scientists can target a selected trait without risking the rest of the other traits in the genetic profile of the plant.
2. GMOs are not tested.
…There are serious testing standards in place from the EPA, FDA, and USDA. GMOs are basically tested down to the last strand of DNA. That’s not something that new crops developed from natural breeding methods are put through before you bake them into a pie.
4. Farmers face lawsuit from suppliers if all their seeds aren’t GMOs.
…Yes, Monsanto and other companies patent their GMO seed varieties, but this is standard in the industry and it’s not just a thing that happens to GMO crops. The
Yes, Monsanto and other companies patent their GMO seed varieties, but this is standard in the industry and it’s not just a thing that happens to GMO crops. The Honeycrisp apple was patented (it expired a few years ago). The SweeTango apple’s patent is so tightly controlled by the developer, the University of Minnesota, that farmers have to pay royalties on sales to the university.
7. GMOs can cause health problems.
As for people saying throughout the internet that taking GMOs out of their diet helped get rid of acne, asthma, or premature ejaculation, anecdotal evidence from bloggers with a laundry list of affiliate links to organic brands isn’t scientific evidence. Get your medical advice from doctors.
The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion, and analysis. Read full, original post: 10 Bullsh*t Arguments Against GMOs
