Welcome back to the conversation!
This morning we had an intensely exciting and informative panel discussion about the facts, risks, rewards, and misconceptions about genetics and food. Genetics, as we heard, has the potential to revolutionize the way we think of food. Genetic engineering may be able to make our food better: more nutritious, easier to grow, resistant to bacteria, viruses, and pests. However, as with all applications of science, we must remain wary – the power of genetics brings the potential for harm, as well.
We learned the difference between organically/inorganically grown foods and GM (genetically-modified) foods – and important distinction it is. Dr. Malamy, a geneticist, explained that the problems many people have with GMOs (Genetically-modified organisms) are not inherent to genetically modified food in general, but issues with specific modified foods. She argued that we should have strict testing of each individual genetically modified food because they are all quite different. Additionally (and more importantly) the problems many people have with GMO, she argued, are problems with techniques in agriculture which include “intensivised” farming with large amounts of fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides. There was a strong response to some of her points – including questions about the safety of recently developed GM foods and the lack of research in organic farming techniques.
Dr. Weil, an ethicist, reinforced that the key to establishing guidelines and policy for genetically modified food is to have an informed public. There are a variety of controversial issues surrounding genetics and food – scientific, economic, and religious – that we can educate ourselves about, and discuss with friends and family.
During the Q & A session, we were unable to address a large number of questions and hope to be able to discuss some of those here, so please feel free to post any questions, opinions, or ideas you may have about genetics and food (whether or not you were at the event!).
We look forward to hearing from you and continuing the conversation!
Parth,
IHC Facilitator
