Genetically Engineered Crops Safe? Consumers Remain Wary, Skeptical

Contrary to popular belief, a team of scientists claimed that genetically engineered crops are safe for human consumption. They are not linked to cancer, which is the prevailing concern about these crops. 

An exhaustive report from the National Academies of Science released on Tuesday stated that genetically-engineered crops should not be treated as harmful because they are not. In fact, they are very safe for humans and animals to eat, as reported by USA Today.

The report showed in detail how these crops are not linked with increased risk for specific cancers, obesity, kidney disease, autism and more other diseases. 

The report was prepared as early as 2014 and the team behind it is composed for more than 50 experts in various fields. The team had pour on more than 900 studies and 20 years of data to come into this conclusion. 

According to the director of biotechnology at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, the research is significant because it is both systematic and thorough. 

It remains to be seen though if the new report can lessen people's general aversion towards these foods. According to Food Safety Magazine, there is still a loud clamor for mandatory labeling of GMOs at the state level. 

The Grocery Manufacturers Association however said that mandatory labeling on GMOs can affect the US food industry. Many Americans are unaware that the foods they consume daily have genetically engineered components. With mandatory labeling, consumer behavior might be affected. 

Maybe with this new report, the Association's worries might be lessened.

An anti-GMO group called Food & Water Watch also remains skeptical over the report's findings, NPR reported. The group was already attacking the research even before the findings were released. The group made accusations against the members of the committee behind the report to be recipients of research funding from biotech companies. If not, these members must have other ties to the GMO industry, the group said.