U.N. Agency Favors Caution on GMOs

U.N. Agency Favors Caution on GMOs

PARIS--The United Nations' world food body favors caution in the use of biotechnology and its effects on health and the environment. The Rome-based Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said that although genetically modified (GM) crops could help combat world hunger, it is concerned about the welfare of animal and human health and the balance of ecosystems. The agency will consider the pros and cons of each new genetically modified organism (GMO) before it is widely distributed. "The FAO favors a system of evaluation based on scientific methods which would objectively determine the advantages and the risks linked to each GMO," said the agency. "This implies adopting a precautionary approach, studying case by case the legitimate preoccupations raised by each product or procedure before it becomes widespread."

The agency is most concerned about the risk of unexpected allergic reactions and the appearance of new plant varieties with a greater resistance to illness and ecological stress, which could thwart the balance of ecosystems. In addition, the FAO is worried that GMOs could cause a loss of traditional crops in developing countries.

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