Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This document discusses the debate around GMOs between proponents and opponents. Proponents claim GMOs increase yields and reduce pesticide use, while opponents argue that GMOs can be toxic, increase chemical inputs, and damage the environment and biodiversity. The document questions whether sufficient human trials were conducted on GMOs before being introduced into the food supply and whether GMO corn regulated as an insecticide poses health risks to consumers. It concludes by polling whether Belizean authorities should permit GMO cultivation.

1. THE GMO DEBATE

2. WHAT ARE GMOS?
 Genetically Modified organisms, often
called genetically engineered (GE). The
correct scientific term is “transgenics.” This
is a process whereby the genes of one
species are inserted into another species.
For the purposes of this initiative, the term
does not include hybrids, selective
breeding, grafting or MAS (Marker Assisted
Selection).

3. Proponents
Proponents claim that genetically modified (GM)
crops:
 are safe to eat and more nutritious
 benefit the environment
 reduce use of herbicides and insecticides
 increase crop yields, thereby helping farmers and
solving the food crisis
 create a more affluent, stable economy
 are just an extension of natural breeding, and
have no risks different from naturally bred crops.

4. Opponents
However, a large and growing body of scientific
research and on-the-ground experience indicate
that
 GMOs fail to live up to these claims. Instead, GM
crops:
 can be toxic, allergenic or less nutritious than their
natural counterparts
 can disrupt the ecosystem, damage vulnerable
wild plant and animal populations and harm
biodiversity

5. Opponents
 increase chemical inputs (pesticides, herbicides)
over the long-term
 deliver yields that are no better, and often worse,
than conventional crops
 cause or exacerbate a range of social and
economic problems
 are laboratory-made and, once released, harmful
GMOs cannot be recalled from the environment.

6. Human Guinea Pigs?
 “There were no human trials conducted
before Genetically Modified crops were
introduced into the U.S. food supply. The
health effects of most GM food products
have never been fully tested.”
http://labelgmos.org

7. Eating an Insecticide?
 “Genetically Modified Corn is regulated by
the Environmental Protection Agency as an
Insecticide. It has been genetically modified
to produce pesticides in its own tissue. [
EPA Pesticides]”
http://labelgmos.org

8. GM corn meets local crop

9. POLL
 Should Belizean authorities permit the
cultivation of Genetically Modified corn
and other such genetically-engineered
agricultural produce here?
Options:
 YES
 NO

10. POLL
 Should Belizean authorities permit the
cultivation of Genetically Modified corn
and other such genetically-engineered
agricultural produce here?
Options:
 YES
 NO