The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh / Hyderabad News : ‘Genetically modified foods a health hazard’

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Tuesday, Jan 13, 2009
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

‘Genetically modified foods a health hazard’

Special Correspondent

Book documents scientific evidence on terrible impact of GM foods
Genetically modified organisms likely to create undetectable side-effects

HYDERABAD: There is no truth in the assumption promoted by biotechnology companies like Monsanto that genetically modified seeds would give increased yields. On the contrary, consumption of GM foods would be hazardous to health, said Jeffrey Smith, Executive Director, Institute for Responsible Technology, a USA-based NGO here on Monday.

Mr. Smith whose book ‘Genetic Roulette : The documented health risks of genetically engineered foods’ was launched under the aegis of Deccan Development Society, said the book documented scientific studies and evidence from across the globe about the disastrous impact of GM foods on human health and environment.

Mr. Smith said, though the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had claimed GM foods were safe to eat, the FDA scientists had warned that genetically modified organisms (GMO) could create unpredictable, hard-to-detect side effects, including allergies, toxins, new diseases and nutritional problems.

Misconception

Organic Farming Association of India Director Claude Alwares said, with lack of good literature on GM foods in India, a misconception was gaining ground that GM foods were required to feed our millions.

Dr. M.V. Rao, president, Agri Biotech Foundation, said new technologies should not be dismissed outright as they could make farming profitable to farmers and reduce use of high percentage pesticides. Deccan Development Society Director P. V. Satheesh felt a democratic debate on efficacy of GMF was need of the hour.

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