A new analysis conducted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found no conclusive evidence that genetically modified organisms (GMO) are dangerous to people countering earlier reports of their safety concerns. Data from the study, Genetically Engineered Crops: Past Experience and Future Prospects determined that there was no difference in risk factors between commercially harvested or genetically engineered (GE) crops and conventionally bred crops Forbes reports.
The study also indicated there was a tenuous link to genetically modified crops and environmental concerns. The committee was organized to address the controversy surrounding GMO’s by examining the evidence leading to the negative implications of GMOs and developing biotechnology in agriculture.
Researchers compiled records from former studies over the last twenty years including over 900 studies and results published in other media. They also investigated 80 speakers that attended three public seminars and 15 webinars and scrutinized over 700 comments and public documents.
Commercial genetically engineered practices are applied to insect resistance and herbicide tolerance, thus, scientists focused their efforts on amassed evidence on commonly grown GE crops consisting of soybeans, cotton, and corn.
Scientists analyzed the effects of GE crops on crop yield, abundance and variations of insects, weed species variance, insecticide and herbicide use, and insect and weed resistance. Conclusively, the report indicated “no conclusive evidence of cause-and-effect relationships between GE crops and environmental problems.” The team pointed out, however, that weed and insect resistance to GE crops are multiplying, and thus, solutions are needed.
Even in light of all of this evidence, genetic engineering in agriculture remains a touch subject that continues to elicit a spectrum of questions and emotions across our society.