Mandatory Labeling of Genetically Modified Foods Is Important to Consumer Choice - Research Paper Example

?"Mandatory Labelling of Genetically Modified Foods is Important to Consumer Choice" Introduction: Genes form the basis of life on the planet. Each cell encompasses a plethora of genetic material. When these genes are expressed, they portray the phenotypic makeup of the organism. Genes are responsible for the behavior of the organism. Human race is fortunate enough for being bestowed with the supreme genetics on the planet to reveal the surreptitious genetics. As the science and technology are making progress, human has started taking the advantage of altering and experimenting with the genes thereby they are now upon altering the genetic composition of the living beings i.e. micro-organism, animals and also the plants. Moreover, these advances are pronounced in the food stuffs, where genetic modifications are paving way to bring revolution to the food industry. How safe are these food items? Are these food items serving human beings in true sense or they are daunting? Research conducted across the globe institute the injurious effects of these genetically modified (GM) food stuffs. It is noticeable that the repercussions are so distressing that they are disturbing our own inheritance. Research further accentuate that genetically modified food items are one of the chief causes of cancer, as, genetically altered food stuffs are synthetically manufactured or its genes are altered. It is evident that these altered GM food stuffs are the resultant of recombinant DNA and possess complete potential to stimulate any cell or gene or its product(s) and in this manner trigger the genetic composition of the customers. The techniques exploited for the formation are cell blending, micro and macro encapsulation, gene deletion or duplication or transgenesis. GM food is not only taxing the environment but also the laws of nature. For this rationale, “Genetically Engineered Food Labeling Act” is formulated. The Act imposes the awareness amongst the communities when the individuals are purchasing or they are selling genetically modified products (Grubesic, 2005). Although, researchers emphasize on the utilization of natural and beneficial food, assimilating natural products which are not genetically modified; significantly their food value is conserved in natural form. Findings through research lay distinction on the fact that consumers must be aware of the kind of food stuff they are consuming. As the demand for the food supply is enhancing with the growing population, new companies are also coming up to contribute in food availability. They seek political pressures to get the license for establishing company to manufacture genetically modified food stuffs. Although it is a violation of permissive regulatory methodology and also contravenes the research answers (Charles, 2002). People have a preference for GM food items because of their superior looks and lasting freshness to a greater length of time, above all they are devoid of bugs and insects particularly the vegetables and fruits. Accepting this psychology to a greater extent, GM food stuffs has boomed the marketplace in every paradigm of food industry (Charles, 2002). Background Genetically modified food stuff is a matter of concern across the globe. European Commission has recommend mandatory labeling for genetically modified food stuffs for as small as 1% of the ingredients that it contains. On the other hand USA does not have any mandatory labeling prerequisite (Debate: Mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods). It is imperative for the customer to have an idea what they are consuming and what percentage of genetic modification the product possess. Advocates and arguments of not putting the label emphasize that there is no established health risk for genetically modified food stuff. On the other hand if labels are put on the genetically modified food stuffs then any disease or ailment will be related to the genetically modified food stuffs, may or may not it has any role in the ailment (Debate: Mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods). Overview of the biotechnology and agriculture relationship Although, humans have generated cross breeds for various crop plants to get a superior variety of food stuffs, but today the situation has taken a different turn in the sense that what used to be in the natural manner and natural cross breed has not been done in a planned manner and targeted genes are altered. This targeted approach led to the process of transgenesis which is a genetic manipulation done in an artificial manner. These genes may find expression in some different cells because of the flanking ends. This is a dangerous condition for the genetically modified food items (Examples of Genetically Modified Crops). The products encompassing food items are food additives for the purpose of wrapping and making available to far-flung areas without a great deal harm to the substance. They are given emission action to uphold uncontaminated form for longer sustainability. The present era perceives hybridization of plant products including seeds, plants, fruits and vegetables (Grubesic, 2005). On the other hand food stuffs encompassing, enzymes are tailored and it becomes essential to incorporate label on the food stuff packages. This is particularly imperative for the dairy or meat products as these animals are developed by the method of transgenesis. The genetically modified food items gained prominence due to the growing demands as a result of increase in population and also due to scarcity of food items. The GM animals also the natural breeds of livestock are fed with genetically modified feed to augment the production of milk or egg and to meet the demands. Although the process affects food value (Charles, 2002). While generating transgenic animals, genes are transferred from different animal(s) of same or of different species causing deleterious effect on health. Assessing the risks and benefits of genetically modified foods Research pronounces that on one occasion after testing the products for quality assurance, it is not essential that the product is okay for the consumption, the altered genetic material may produce devastating effects. The conditions in laboratory may not be same as the storage or environmental conditions. Temperature variations occur and this leads to the altered genetic expression of the gene being modified. They are certain to respond to the disparity in the environmental conditions and consequently it is necessary to be away from these genetically modified food stuffs. The book “Lords of Harvest” clearly indicate the battle of biotechnology against environmentalism. It provides a clear opinion about misrepresented genes in genetically modified corns and soybeans. They themselves act as self insecticides and thereby affect the consumers who are consuming such products (Pollution in people). The article pollution in people institute an eye opening outcomes stating that when Washington residents were tested for their hair, blood and urine for the presence of any kind of toxic material, they were surprised to get the various groups of chemicals in their blood from heavy metals and also chloro-fluoro carbonated compounds, pesticides etc. These compounds are known to bring health hazards (Pollution in people). The book Seeds of Deception also uncovered the Industries and Government regarding the safety of Genetically Engineered Foods. It conveys information regarding various health risks that are being imposed by consuming genetically modified food stuffs. As every invention has pros and cons so do the genetically modified food stuffs. It is evident that plant genes do not find their expression in animals as the animal cell possess different cellular physiology, so eating healthy plant products although it is genetically modified may not cause serious consequences in animals. But it is essential to have ample of knowledge before consuming "Genetically Engineered" food stuff. It is a good diet supplement for nutrition and aids in eliminating nutritional deficiency (Examples of Genetically Modified Crops). Pros and cons of mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods Every food item is labeled with the name of the company or firm or through any legal or marketable entity; it also exhibits the regular conditions of display for mass, wholesale or retail sale. In the similar manner, the genetically engineered food must be labeled with the tag “Genetically Engineered”. The genetically modified food items could result in altered enzyme formation or genetically altered processing agents. It is noteworthy for the knowledge of the customer the kind of genetic modification the food item he/ she is consuming has gone through. It is therefore genetic labeling is essential for marketing the product. A. Arguments for mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods: 1. Consumers have a right to know what’s in their food, especially concerning products for which health and environmental concerns have been raised: There are certain food stuffs that encompass various bacteria, these are incorporated during the process of transgenesis where they serve as vectors. They may impose harmful effect on human physiology. Putting a label enable the customer to have the knowledge of the kind of food being consumed. 2. Mandatory labeling will allow consumers to identify and stay away from foods that cause them problems (allergic reactions): People belonging to US and Europe have developed life-threatening allergies after consuming genetically altered or genetically modified food stuffs. It is observed while they consumed peanuts, the cause is attributed to the genetic manipulation done to the peanut plant. 3. For religious or ethical reasons, many consumers want to avoid eating animal products, including animal DNA: In genetically modified food products the DNA incorporated need not belong to plant only, it could be from any other source may it be micro-organism or any animal DNA that has the potential to modify the desired food stuff. This may be against the ethics of those who are vegetarians. 4. At least 21 countries and the European Union have established some form of mandatory labeling: It is known that 21 European countries have made it mandatory to put the label for genetically modified food stuff. now 90% of the US citizens want this implementation in their nation too(Debate: Mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods). Labeling provides consumers a choice to consume or not to consume the genetically modified food stuff. By putting the label of "Genetically Modified" food stuff it is a kind of respect to those who do not want of consume the genetically modified food stuff. It offers the individual and prepares the individual to take risks or not to take the risk. Putting a label on the food stuff provides them the kind of ingredients being incorporated as opposed to the food stuff with no label. Labeling enable the product to stand out as "best" among other food stuffs. It is also observed that cost of labeling for "Genetically Modified" food is enhance in some cases by the opponents, but putting a label will not allow them to do so. It enables the global fear as the product is providing a transparency to the customer about the product. It is a great risk if food or product manufacturers do not put the label as it is an indication of hiding facts about the product. On the other hand it is the right of the consumer to know what kind of food stuff is being consumed. It is mandatory for the safety of the consumers. Therefore GM labeling enhances confidence in food safety measures. Those who want to be away from genetically modified food stuff, labeling will be a boon for them and they are not being cheated. Thus it is essential to put label on each and every genetically modified food stuff. Arguments against mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods 1. Labels on GM foods imply a warning about the health effect when no significant differences between GM and conventional foods have been detected. Labels at times convey a psychological pressure that food products with label "Genetically Modified" are not safe. It must be kept in consideration that labeling for ingredients which are not displaying any kind of health issues demoralize the labeling laws and consumer confidence. Labeling becomes futile for the product which does not show any difference with other food items. In certain cases GM crops do not differ in any sense with non Gm crops, here labeling creates an unnecessary bias and the product loses its sale value. 2. Labeling GM foods at the demand of some consumers will result in higher food prices for all consumers. Some individuals do not mind to consume genetically modified food stuffs, but for the sake of labeling these individuals have to pay more cost for the product. 3. Consumers who want to buy non-GM foods already have an option – certified organic foods which by definition cannot be produced with GM ingredients. It is manifested that organic food items are not genetically modified. If individuals want to avoid genetically modified food stuff then they have a choice of consuming organic food stuffs. Every individual do not have sound knowledge of genetic and genetic manipulations. With their little knowledge they can create devastating situation for themselves. It is believed that psychology plays a key role in the well-being of individuals and therefore this little information can be distressing. Labeling the food stuff as Genetically Modified limits the consumer choice. Although surveys across the world advocates the labeling of "Genetically Modified" food stuff. The regulations for labeling the food stuff enhances the cost of GM food items (Is labeling of GM foods important to consumer choice?). In certain cases there is not enough space on the packaging to provide the complete information about the kind of genetic manipulation the product has undergone. Issues with mandatory labeling A. Although labeling of GM food products appears to be straightforward, there are several complex issues that require resolution prior to implementation. Regulations need to be formulated as what is the permissible percentage of the genetic modification allowed. What are the list of products that essentially needs the label "GM". As mentioned in the article there is huge economic loss for the product due to the little knowledge of the common consumers. Market does not have all the qualified and well aware consumers and so economic impact of the labeling must be calculated (Klintman, M). Consumer opinion on mandatory labeling Surveys indicate that a majority of Americans support mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods. As stated earlier in the article 21 European nations have made it mandatory to put a "GM" tag on the product; 90% of the Americans are also in the favor of making it mandatory to put "Genetically Modified" tag on the food stuff. This enables the customer to be aware of the kind of ingredients the food items contains. The label should also encompass the requisite for the temperature and other environmental conditions (Labeling Policy for GM Foods: Pragmatism in Action or Policy Failure?). Necessity is the mother of invention. The drugs which are available in the market are the result of genetic manipulation. Without genetic manipulation genetic engineered crops could not be produced. There would not be any polio vaccine or vaccines for any other disease. Critical advances in the field of biotechnology hold promise to eliminate starvation and malnutrition, this effort must be supported. Conclusion Genetic modification and manipulation is essential for the progression of life. It is performed in every aspect of human endeavour. It is essential to understand the importance of genetic modification. It is beneficial for the human, animal and plant world. Without genetic alteration evolution could not take place and living beings are going to be deprived of the vaccines, food items and freedom from the insects and bugs. The population of harmful insects will proliferate and there will be a danger of human survival. Ample of knowledge and awareness is required to understand the genetic manipulation process that the food item has undergone. It will not be misleading if the "Genetically Modified" label is pasted on the food item. The complete information will help in developing an understanding towards the genetic manipulation process and more and more people would like to opt for such product. On the other hand if the information is not sufficient then it may lead to devastating results. Thus genetic modification label should be mandatory for the information, awareness and complete understanding of the individuals (GMO Safety). Labels are also mandatory to have a transparency with the customer and the customer develops trust over the company for not concealing the facts and revealing all the information related with the product. Thus labels should be made mandatory for all the "Genetically Modified" products. References: Charles, D. Lords of the Harvest: Biotech, Big Money, And the Future of Food. Publisher: Basic Books. 2002. Debate: Mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods. Available at http://debatepedia.idebate.org/en/index.php/Debate:_Mandatory_labeling_of_genetically_modified_foods. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. Examples of Genetically Modified Crops. Available at http://www.bionetonline.org/english/content/ff_cont3.htm. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. Grubesic, J. T. L. The Genetically Engineered Food Labeling Act. 2005. Available at http://www.mindfully.org/GE/2005/NM-Food-Labeling-Act-90617feb05.htm. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. GMO Safety. Available at http://www.gmo-safety.eu/. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. Is labeling of GM foods important to consumer choice? Available at http://loveinmytummy.onsugar.com/labelling-GM-foods-important-consumer-choice-9085497. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. Klintman, M. The Genetically Modified (GM) Food Labeling Controvery: Ideological and Epistemic Crossovers. Available at http://www.jstor.org/pss/3182978. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. Labeling Policy for GM Foods: Pragmatism in Action or Policy Failure? Available at http://ideas.repec.org/a/ags/cafric/45733.html. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. Pollution in People Available at http://pollutioninpeople.org/results. [Accessed on 19th March 2011]. Smith, J. M. Seeds of Deception: Exposing Industry and Government Lies About the Safety of the Genetically Engineered Foods You're Eating. Publisher: Yes! Books. 2003.             Read More