Insight

Genetic technologies are playing an increasingly important role in the modern food industry. The need to increase food production, address climate change, control plant diseases, and combat agricultural pests is encouraging scientists to explore new methods. One result of this process is the development of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

However, an important question remains for consumers: How safe is genetically modified food, and what controls are applied to its production and placement on the market?

What Is a Genetically Modified Organism?

A genetically modified organism (GMO) is a plant, animal, or microorganism whose genetic material has been deliberately altered using modern biotechnology. Genetic engineering allows scientists to introduce specific changes into an organism’s DNA to give it desired characteristics.

For example, genetic modification can be used to develop varieties of corn or soybeans that are more resistant to certain pests or better able to withstand environmental conditions such as drought. Some genetic modifications are also intended to improve a product’s nutritional value, extend its shelf life, or increase crop yields.

It is important to distinguish between traditional breeding and genetic engineering. Traditional breeding involves crossing and selecting plants to obtain desired characteristics, whereas genetic engineering enables more targeted changes to genetic material.

Which Genetically Modified Products Are Used in Food Production?

The most common examples of products derived from genetically modified crops on the global market include soybeans, corn, canola, and sugar beet.

These crops may be used directly in food production or to manufacture animal feed, vegetable oils, starches, and other ingredients.

This does not mean that every soy- or corn-based product sold in shops is genetically modified. The origin of the raw materials, the manufacturing process, and the appropriate labelling of the product must all be considered.

Is Genetically Modified Food Harmful to Health?

The safety of genetically modified food is one of the most extensively studied issues in modern food science.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), genetically modified foods currently available on the international market undergo safety assessments. There is no evidence that authorised GM products that have undergone appropriate evaluation pose a greater risk to human health than their conventional counterparts.

However, this does not mean that every genetically modified product is automatically safe. Each new product must be assessed individually.

Safety assessments consider possible toxicity, allergenic potential, changes in nutritional composition, and other potential effects on the body. For example, if a genetic modification results in the production of a new protein, it must be assessed to determine whether it could potentially cause an allergic reaction.

It is also important to determine whether the product’s nutritional value has changed or whether any undesirable compounds have been formed.

Why Is Official Control Important?

Ensuring the safety of genetically modified food is not solely the responsibility of manufacturers. Government authorities and regulatory bodies also play an important role by ensuring that products placed on the market comply with applicable legislation.

Official controls may include:

• Identifying genetically modified products;

• Reviewing the relevant documentation;

• Ensuring product traceability;

• Monitoring compliance with statutory labelling requirements;

• Conducting laboratory testing when necessary to detect specific genetic modifications.

In the European Union, the authorisation of genetically modified food and animal feed is governed by a strict legal framework. Scientific risk assessments are carried out by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), while the authorisation and market-placement processes are regulated by relevant legislation.

Particular importance is attached to labelling and traceability so that consumers can access information about the genetically modified origin of a product.

What Should Consumers Consider?

Consumers should understand that the presence of genetically modified ingredients does not automatically mean that a product is harmful, just as a product’s natural origin does not automatically guarantee its safety.

Food safety is assessed based on scientific evidence and the risks associated with each specific product. It is therefore important to choose products from reliable manufacturers, read the information provided on labels, and support effective official controls.

Modern biotechnology may offer significant opportunities for agriculture and food production. However, its use must be based on scientific assessment, transparency, and consumer awareness.

The ultimate goal is not to stop technological progress, but to ensure a system in which innovation and food safety are aligned.

 

Sources

1. World Health Organization (WHO) — Food, Genetically Modified. Information on the safety of genetically modified food.

2. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (2016) — Genetically Engineered Crops: Experiences and Prospects. A scientific assessment of genetically engineered crops.

3. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) — Genetically Modified Organisms. Information on the risk assessment of genetically modified organisms.

4. European Commission — Genetically Modified Organisms. Information on the European Union’s legislative approach, authorisation procedures, and official controls.