Oct. 21, 1999
A controversial study that says genetically engineered foods could be harmful to your health
is prompting calls for more testing of these products.
Science Specialist Ed Yeates has the story.
The study, published in the British Medical Journal "Lancet," has been critized
as not being thorough, with some scientists saying the results are
inconclusive.
Two of the most common genetically altered crops are soybeans and corn, according to scientists. They're two products found in a number of everyday foods consumed by Americans.
The products, in many cases, have been engineered to be more resistant to insects or weeds. And that's good, according to the biotech industry.
Mike Phillips/BioTechnology Industry Organization: "They are now able to use less chemical pesticides than they have ever been
able to use in the past and this is a great benefit for the environment."
But, a controversial study suggests genetically altered foods could cause health problems, although scientists admit there've been no known cases of someone getting sick from eating such foods. But, researchers say more safety testing and monitoring is needed.
Michael Hansen / Senior Researcher, Consumers Union: "It's more a question of don't look don't find. That's why we don't see evidence
of problems out there because the proper safety tests haven't been done.
Hansen and other scientists also think companies should have to label genetically altered foods so consumers can choose whether to buy them. It's a practice now widespread in Europe, where these foods have come under attack.
Dr. Paul Billings / Medical Geneticist: "We need to have attitude that the safety of the food supply is a key element of
our health.
Meantime, the biotech industry says companies already test their products and leaders don't believe more monitoring is needed.
