6 GMO Myths You Need To Stop Believing
1. Myth: GMOs are in existence for past many decades
There is a big difference between genetic modification and traditional breeding. Genetic modification is a process in which genes are transmitted from one organism to another by using bacteria, virus or special gun. It is an unnatural process that’s why it has certain risks.
We are concerned about the genetic modification of seeds and other ingredients in food. The genetically engineered seeds are produced by companies that can tolerate heavy herbicides sprays. Always buy organic seeds for your garden rather than these genetically modified seeds.
2. Myth: GMOs decrease dependence of farmers on older pesticides
You are absolutely wrong if you think that you will not require older pesticides once you start using GMOs. You must be aware with the fact that the problem of superweeds has become more severe by using GMOs.
3. Myth: We need GMOs to control weeds and pests.
In reality, GMOs have created severe problems of pests. The seeds produced by this technology have the capacity to either withstand heavy dosages of chemical pesticides or to create their own pesticide inside plant.
Approximately 154million acres of genetically engineered soy, sugar beets, canola, alfalfa and cotton were developed to resist chemical herbicide sprays. Nearly 1/3rd of that area presently quays superweeds, that are not even killed by GMOs chemical.
4. Myth: GMOs are safe for the environment.
GMOs are greatly influencing several species such as Monarch butterflies. Glyphosate chemical has reduced the reproduction of Monarch butterflies as this chemical destroys milkweed plants that are the only food for baby Monarch butterflies.
Neonicotinoid insecticides are coated in GMOs that stay inside the pollen. These neonicotinoids cause neurological issues in bees.
5. Myth: GMO technology is reliable and safe
Presently, GMO technology is in the developing phase and it should not be considered reliable. There is very low possibility of inserting an outside gene into the similar location of a plant twice. Such an insertion can result in unknown traits that can be harmful for human health.
Biotechnologists just have limited information about the cellular, genetic and biochemical functioning of crop species.
6. Myth: GMO ingredients are safe to eat.
Adequate tests are not yet performed to determine the long-term impacts of GMO ingredients on human health. So far, tests are only conducted to find out the calories, vitamins, protein and fat content of genetically engineered foods.
A study conducted on mammals has revealed that the genetically engineered soybeans or corns have negatively affected their liver, bone marrow and kidney. Another study found that higher levels of glyphosate can cause obesity, diabetes, heart problems and circulation issues.
Stop believing these myths about GMO in order to protect whole environment and human health.