Dec 5, 2022
Take the gene as a sentence in a book. Copy that sentence (gene) into another book. Now scientists can put the gene into a specific paragraph. Farmer Paul Hodgen uses this example to explain genetic modification in food. He has worked with GMOs - genetically modified organism - in both the laboratory as an agronomist, as well as farming GMO corn and soybeans.
He uses biotechnology to make his job easier to produce a low cost, healthy, environmentally-friend product. GMO crops allow him to use fewer pesticides, make fewer passes across the field, and spend more time with his family than the non-GMO fields he farms. He wants dietitians to know the facts behind biotechnology so they can share accurate information with their clients.
"The biggest misconception is driven by the fear labels" says Paul. The companies are trying to add fear with non-GMO labels, particularly when there are no genetically modified products available - meaning there is no difference. He also points out how GMO food can be healthier for you and that GMO labeling is marketing trying to get more of your food dollar.
Paul discusses how consumers want affordable, safe, and environmentally friendly products - and GMOs allow farmers to do that efficiently. He talks about biotechnology, CRISPR, and gene editing techniques, as well as the improvements made in the technology that improves our food and farming.
Insect control, managing weeds, and quality traits such as high oleic soybeans are some of the reasons farmers use GMO seeds. He points to high oleic soybeans as a way to have a consistent source of oils found in fish.
In responding to the claims about how much research has been done, Paul highlights how years and years of research have been done with the proteins used in GMOs. Where is the activity of the trait happening in the plant or the food we're consuming? Most don't have activity with humans.
Paul highlights how growing non-GMO crops cost him more time away from the family, additional hours of work more exposure to chemicals, and increases his financial risks. He encourages RDNs and all listeners with a nutrition preference to consider the whole picture rather than activist-led information.
The world's poor cannot afford the more expensive alternatives. GMO allows food costs to be lower and deserves your consideration as to why it makes sense in food.
Follow Hodgen Farms on Instagram or look up Paul Hodgen on social channels to learn more.