How can you protect your family against genetically modified food?

Essentially, all that can be done to protect your family against harmful genetically modified food is keep informed. If the information alarms you and the risks seem too high, it is best to avoid all foods that may contain genetic modification.

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This can be achieved by reading labels correctly. The labelling system is obviously quite simple; with “Free from Genetic Modification” meaning that there are no traces whatsoever and “might contain/contains Genetic Modification” implying that there is a great chance the product contains food that has been genetically modified.

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Furthermore, fast food must be avoided if you are hoping to steer clear of genetically modified food, as there are no laws enforcing their acknowledgment and the products are often highly processed, thus have a higher chance of being genetically modified. When visiting restaurants or cafes, you have the right to enquire about what food has been genetically modified, hence avoiding any meals that may contain these foods.

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In addition to this, products free of genetic modification can be guaranteed by growing your own food. This will also ensure that the produce is free of chemicals and allow your family to be protected against harmful toxins. This is a time-consuming process however, and in todays busy world it may be simpler to ask your local supermarket to notify you as to what products are genetically modified.

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Finally, you may join many groups and committees that will keep you up-to-date with the latest in genetic technology, as, in relation to this issue, knowledge is power.

Eat Safe!

Dr Georga Leisemann (Feeding Your Family)

What is the future of genetically modified food?

In the best-case scenario, genetic modification will greatly benefit society in the future. However, this cannot be confirmed until the long-term risks are assessed properly.

For example, scientists are presently attempting to develop a form of genetic modification, which involves designing bacteria that feeds on the oil produced in oil slicks. This will assist in controlling industrial pollution.

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Genetically modified food in particular, will hopefully improve human health and ultimately fight disease. Some foods may even contain antioxidants that will help combat cancer. This process works by neutralizing harmful free radicals within the body. In addition to this, genetically modified food in the future will benefit the immune system by containing nutrients and substances that stimulate the body's defence system. Inserting Omega-3 into land plants, for example, may combat cardiovascular disease. To achieve this, scientists are attempting to take genes from marina micro-algae and insert them into canola and cotton.

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As mentioned in a previous post, genetically modified food may assist the health of individuals in developing countries. For example, bananas may replace syringes in order to immunise a greater number of people without the extra resources.

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The future of the labelling system may also change positively. It is hoped that there will be mandatory labelling of ALL genetically modified food and that the general public will have access to information concerning the technology and its implications. To avoid consumers eating food that has been accidentally contaminated, companies may also need to label their products with the words, “might contain Genetic Modification”. Consequently, the addition of these new labels may result in a decreased number of families purchasing potentially harmful genetically modified food.

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It is fair to make predications about the future of genetic technology, however no one really knows how genetic modification will alter the lives of your children and your children’s children. Therefore parents must simply keep themselves informed about the latest developments and their implications not only now, but also in the forever-changing future. 

Eat Safe!

Dr Georga Leisemann (Feeding Your Family)

Are there any government regulations concerning the issue?

In regards to the labelling of genetically modified food, health ministers agreed to put in place a labelling system to ensure consumer choice. This came into effect in December 2001.  All genetically modified ingredients that are sold in Australia are allegedly safe, however products do not require a label if they are:

• Highly refined
• Additives and processing aids (don't contain novel DNA/protein)
• Foods containing less than 0.1% genetically modified flavouring
• Food for immediate consumption (restaurants, fast food, cafes)
• Contaminated by mistake
• End products (meat, eggs or milk from animals fed on genetically modified material) 

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These labels are located on the ingredient panel of the product, however if more information is needed, companies can be contacted and their use of genetically modified material can be inquired about.

Eat Safe!

Dr Georga Leisemann (Feeding Your Family)

What are the ethical concerns regarding genetic modification?

Genetically modified food is a very controversial issue among many religions and vegetarians. Vegetarians in particular may find that produce, which they normally consume now contain genes taken from animals, thus their beliefs about eating meat prevents them from consuming this new genetically modified food.

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In the same way, Muslims would find consuming any food genetically modified to contain pig genes ethically wrong. In addition to this, even those who don’t belong to groups that prohibit genetically modified food may find it wrong to eat food, which is so far from its natural state. This issue therefore creates various problems and debates among groups in our society and the government.

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 Furthermore, many people raise concerns about the human’s right to modify creation. For example, some sects of Christianity find it demeaning to God, as they believe he created everything for a specific purpose and altering that purpose is altering his plan for the human race.

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Finally, many individuals are finding their voices are being silenced in regards to the issue. In many cases, it appears as though the government is taking control of genetic modification and not allowing opinions to be voiced, thus defeating the purpose of a democracy. 

Eat Safe!

Dr Georga Leisemann (Feeding Your Family)