Top Five Myths Of Genetically Modified Seeds, Busted

[Glassunion]

52. Science!

I'm not saying that GMO is bad. In fact there are many cases where GMO is great. The genetic modification of bacteria in the production of insulin has been a god send to diabetics.

"There is no peer-reviewed research suggesting that GMO crops are having any harmful impact on our environment, and no plausible scientific theories indicating that our current GMO activities will lead to anything harmful." an absence of evidence, is not evidence of absence.

There have been studies, they have been peer reviewed, however the issue is that there are no long term studies. Despite the widespread use of GMOs by many countries, the need for biosafety research should be a concern. Unfortunately, lack of stringent standards, international harmonization, and transparency, as well as remaining claims of confidentiality on biosafety-relevant data places additional burdens on regulatory agencies. If I modify a tomato today, and the FDA rules it safe, does that mean that every modified tomato I grow will be safe to grow in all environments and conditions?

We all know that plants grow differently in different environments. Soil, sun, and rain make a huge difference in how a plant will react in its environment. Just look at the mighty grape in France. A pinot noir grape can make for a good wine. I prefer Bourgogne. The geology and climate make a big difference in the make up of that grape.

So would my tomato, that was modified here in the US and grown in New Jersey soil (best for tomatoes... sorry Sacramento), and given the seal of approval by the government, be absolutely safe to grow in other regions, with different soil compositions, and climates? Would that tomato be guaranteed to no have any adverse complications on the ecosystems in which it is planted?