GM crops: not the science but the regulatory policy is the problem

Abstract

This is the message from a molecular biologist who was active for 40 years in the development of what is now called LSQUOtransgenic plantsRSQUO and LSQUOgenetically modified (GM) cropsRSQUO. After nearly 20 years of commercial growth of these GM crops, no danger to the health of humans or animals has ever been substantiated. Also, no danger to the environment has been reported. On the contrary, GM technology could become an essential tool to achieve sustainable intensive agriculture. Nevertheless, public opinion, thanks to long campaigns by lobby groups with no scientific basis to their arguments, has imposed a very complex regulatory framework. Particularly in Europe and in many developing countries, field trials, essential for the development of GM crops, have been made impossible. The idea that public opinion, without any facts to back it up, can decide which science is good and which science should be banned is a very slippery slope for democracy. It is high time that the OECD shone some light on the GMO debate.