Biotech Crops and Foods: The Risks and Alternatives

by Oakland Institute Fellow Carmelo Ruiz-Marrero

The raging worldwide controversy over genetically engineered (GE) crops and products continues to grow. Proponents claim these novel crops are helping feed the hungry, improve the economic situation of farmers and make agriculture more environmentally sound. But a growing number of critics, which include environmentalists, farmers, intellectuals, indigenous peoples, students, academics, biologists, agronomists and people from all walks of life and from all over the world, hold that genetic engineering presents serious social and ecological questions that the proponents have not addressed adequately.

What is the truth then? Are GE foods safe? Are GE crops environmentally benign? Can biotechnology mitigate poverty and fight world hunger?

Carmelo Ruiz-Marrero, Oakland Institute's Fellow, explores the track record of genetic engineering in Biotech Crops and Foods: The Risks and Alternatives. Read More at http://www.oaklandinstitute.org/?q=node/view/336