Safety, bioengineered

ETH Zurich, Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, Safety and Environmental Technology Group, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland... 

Ecological concerns are real as we do not know what may occur with the widespread propagation of transgenic plants. There were initial fears that Bt corn was toxic not only to the European corn borer but also to the monarch butterfly larvae that may eat milkweed leaves laced with Bt corn pollen. However, EPA studies dismissed this threat. It is possible that other insects, not intended as targets of bioengineered proteins, may also be affected. It is absolutely essential that these ecological issues be addressed. However, these are not food safety issues. The same concerns occur with the widespread use of organic pesticides relative to runoff and water pollution. Both must be addressed on their own merits. 

It appears that bioengineering of foods holds great promise of providing significant benefits to humans. However, more education and research are needed to minimize concerns and demonstrate the safety of the procedure to those who are in doubt. 

---