Question
I am doing a project on genetic engineering and I am wondering why do so many people disagree with genetic engineering?
Submitted by: utopya2000
Answer
Expert response from Fran Castle
Former Global Senior Manager, Communications, BASF
Monday, 01/12/2014 11:32
People may agree or disagree with the use or application of genetic engineering in agriculture for a variety of reasons. First, there is quite a bit of misinformation available online about GM crops. You can find more information about common misconceptions about GM crops, such as that GM crops aren’t tested for safety or that pesticides are injected into them, in this post.
Second, people often voice concerns about GM crops that are associated with modern agriculture in general. Rob Wager from Vancouver Island University addresses many of these concerns in this response, including cross-pollination, fertilizer use and seed costs.
Mary Mertz, who farms in Kansas, also addresses another common concern in this response: People unassociated with farming may have the impression that farmers no longer have a choice in terms of the seeds that they buy for crop planting. This is not the case. There are options; there are many seed companies, from which to purchase the supply. We choose the seeds we use based upon many factors, top of which would be performance (higher yields with lesser use of other inputs, like pesticides).
Joy Rumble, assistant professor of agricultural communication at the University of Florida, brings another perspective in this response , and says, “each person’s opposition may be influenced by different things. For some individuals, ethical or religious values could be impacting their opposition. Others may be skeptical of and distrust ‘big business’ and ‘corporate agriculture.’ Others may simply not understand the technology or the practices, causing them to be unsure about the product.”
That’s why GMO Answers was created – to address consumer concerns about GMOs by providing credible, science-based information. We invite anyone with questions about the application of biotechnology in agriculture to ask them!