Tag: Seed patents

As of 2018, four major agrochemical and seed companies dominated the markets for genetically engineered crops, highlighting a significant and controversial topic associated with genetically modified food: the consolidation of power in the agricultural sector. This dominance raises serious ethical and economic questions regarding control over the global food supply.

While often debated for health impacts, the USDA reports that over 90% of US corn, cotton, and soy come from GMO seeds. This reality prompts a deeper question: what is the real problem with GMO foods, beyond popular misconceptions?

According to a 2022 systematic review published in *Environmental Sciences Europe*, serious adverse events were identified in animal studies involving genetically modified (GM) food consumption, including mortality, cancer, and organ abnormalities, though the studies were considered to have a high risk of bias. This reflects the complex and controversial nature of the topic, sparking concern and debate regarding the potential downsides of bioengineered ingredients.

According to a 2024 survey, a majority of EU citizens remain mistrustful of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and question their safety, illustrating a core reason why is GMO banned or heavily regulated in many parts of the world. The decision to ban or restrict GMOs is not based on a single factor but is a complex web of scientific debate, public opinion, and political strategy. This article explores the multifaceted factors contributing to these bans.

In Australia, a landmark legal case demonstrated that GM canola contaminated a neighboring organic farm, leading to a loss of organic certification and significant legal costs. This incident underscores the numerous and complex failures of GMOs that have been documented across environmental, economic, and social spheres.