Genetic food is backed by top scientist

Article Abstract:

Writing in The Independent in reply to concerns expressed over genetically modified food, top scientist, Professor Richard Dawkins, Simonyi Professor of the Public Understanding at Oxford University claims that using genetic engineering is very similar to the selective breeding methods used by farmers for thousands of years, and any risks are more likely to be of an environmental nature rather than nutritional or medical. People's fears concerning the adverse effects of such foods on the human immune system are irrational since this may be caused by a huge number of things. The toxins found in natural "unengineered foods" are as dangerous as any substances which may result form genetically engineered foods. A high proportion of food types such as the maize cob, which people are happy to eat, would not exist at all if it had not been genetically enhanced. Selecting genes by artificial means has resulted in the difference in appearance between the wild maize cob and the cultivated one, rather than introducing foreign genes.

Comment:

UK: Professor Richard Dawkins says using genetic engineering is very similar to selective breeding methods used by farmers

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Schools cut out genetically modified foods

Article Abstract:

Over 1300 schools in six different areas, including Kent County Council, have decided not to offer genetically modified (GM) foods and other areas including Oxfordshire and Devon are contemplating taking similar action. It is difficult to successfully exclude GM foods as they are not labelled but the councils hope their stance will pressurise the Government into labelling GM foods. US soya growers mix the modified and natural versions of soya so it becomes very difficult to make any distinction. Monsanto claims that its modified soya beans are perfectly safe to eat.

Comment:

UK: Over 1,300 schools in 6 different areas, incl Kent County Council, have decided not to offer genetically modified foods

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