Genetically Modified Foods Food Safety

Genetically Modified Foods What are genetically modified foods? “crop plants created for human or animal consumption using the latest molecular biology techniques.” (Whitman, 2000) Used since late 1980’s Rapidly expanding around the world. Most common crops in the U.S. Soybean, corn, cotton, canola

GMO Benefits Enhanced plant growth Decreased pesticide and fertilizer use Increased nutrient potential Increased crop yields

GMO Risks Emerging allergens Herbicide-resistant weeds / “superbugs” Ethical / moral concerns Decreased biodiversity

GMO Regulation & Labeling U.S. FDA “currently requires labeling of GE foods if the food has a significantly different nutritional property; if a new food includes an allergen that consumers would not expect to be present; or if a food contains a toxicant beyond acceptable limits.” (Byrne, 2007) FDA proposed voluntary guidelines for labels in 2001

Mandatory labeling? Pros Cons Consumer rights Identification of food issues Americans support mandatory labels At least 22 other countries require labels Ethical concerns Cons Label may imply warning Increase costs to consumers GE-Free food already an option for consumers Difficult to separate

Food Safety What is food safety? Prevention of foodborne illnesses Protection of food supply Safe handling

Foodborne Illnesses “caused by consuming contaminated foods or beverages” (CDC, 2005) There are over 250 different foodborne illnesses Bacteria, viruses, parasites Difficult to diagnosis Vague symptoms

Common foodborne illnesses Campylobacter (cdc.gov) Salmonella Science.nasa.gov E. coli (foodpoisonjournal.com) Calicivirus http://nabc.ksu.edu/images/uploads/norovirus.jpg

Foodborne illnesses Signs & Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Fever, vomiting, diarrhea Diagnosis Treatment Fluids May need to see your doctor

Foodborne Illness Outbreaks How are outbreaks detected and tracked? Illnesses happen in a group of people Reports go to health department CDC starts investigation Outbreak ends Contaminated food is gone, food product is recalled, restaurant is closed or food processing plant is closed http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm

Keeping Food Safe: Consumer Clean Separate Cook Chill Illustration courtesy of Partnership for Food Safety Education 12

Food Safety http://www.5min.com/Video/Learn-About-Food-Safety-97702374