3. GMOs are
highly
controversial,
but there are
legitimate
arguments on
both sides of
the debate.
The USDA
certifies that
organic foods
are not
bio-engineered
in any way.
4.
5. • Genetically modified foods have been around for
about two decades and are deemed generally safe,
yet they continue to generate controversy.
• While some studies show that these engineered
foods are as safe as traditionally grown foods, other
studies show deleterious effects in animals.
• In a meta-analysis, most of the studies showing
genetically modified foods in a positive light were
noted to have a conflict of interest.
• The scientific community is concerned about industry
restrictions on testing of genetically modified seeds.
• Also, there is concern that profit may be fueling the
adoption of genetically modified crops.
• Ongoing independent studies to evaluate safety are
needed. Scientific, economic, environmental, social,
ethical, and political perspectives will need to be
considered.
6. Standards -
https://www.ams.usda.gov/
1.The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Law, passed by Congress in
July of 2016, directed USDA to establish this national mandatory standard
for disclosing foods that are or may be bioengineered.
2.The Standard defines bioengineered foods as those that contain detectable
genetic material that has been modified through certain lab techniques and
cannot be created through conventional breeding or found in nature.
3.The Standard requires food manufacturers, importers, and certain retailers
to ensure bioengineered foods are appropriately disclosed. Regulated entities
have several disclosure options: text, symbol, electronic or digital link,
and/or text message. Additional options such as a phone number or web
address are available to small food manufacturers or for small and very small
packages.
9. BE Canola Production
BE canola is commercially produced in three
countries: Australia, Canada and the United States.
Canola from these three countries should be
presumed to be BE canola.
In 2017, 30% of all global canola production was BE
canola (Statistica, 2018). Note that in the ISAAA
database, canola is listed in two separate
categories: Argentine and Polish. These are historic
terms that refer to Brassica napus and B. rapa,
respectively. No B. rapa BE canola has ever been
commercialized.