Hidden viral gene revealed in GMOs

Biotech industry claims and regulator reassurances that GM technology is predictable and safe have been shaken by the discovery of a viral gene sequence in many GM crops, GM Freeze reports. Two thirds of GM crops approved in the USA contain the hitherto unidentified viral gene, but although regulators have insufficient information to determine if it is safe for human consumption, EFSA has opted for a retrospective review rather than a ban, according to GM Freeze.

The existence of the Gene VI viral gene was revealed in a study authored by EFSA staff and published in the journal GM Crops and Food. The gene is in many widely-grown GM crops, including Monsanto’s RR MON810 soya, NK603 maize and other crops imported to the EU for food and animal feed. The discovery raises two significant problems: Safety assessments for GM food and feed did not detect the presence of the gene previously, despite assurances that the technology is predictable and the crops are safe. Tthe gene sequence itself could affect the way plants function, potentially creating unexpected allergens or toxins or affecting the crop’s defenses against diseases. More information is available here: GM Freeze