Bioengineering Backlash
Genetic engineering is the process of modifying the genetic material of an organism usually by artificially transferring
genes in order to achieve a desired trait such as cold or salt tolerance, the ability to defend against pests,
or better utilization of water and fertilizers. Most of the concern is over the modification of genes across species.
Besides the obvious ethical and religious concerns there are safety concerns over new allergens in foods, the spread
of disease across species barriers, unpredictable mutations in the genetic code, and increased use of chemicals
on crops. While it is too early to dismiss the promise of genetically-engineered foods, it is important that more
studies be conducted on genetically altered products.
