Understanding GMOs: Exploring Safety and Benefits

🧬Genetic engineering involves modifying the genetic material of plants, animals, or microorganisms to create desired traits.

🌱GMO crops are carefully studied and compared to non-GMO varieties to ensure their safety and nutritional equivalence.

🌍GMOs can have positive economic and environmental impacts, such as increased crop yields and reduced pesticide use.

🔬Multiple federal agencies collaborate to regulate GMOs and ensure their safety for human consumption and the environment.

🌽GMO crops, such as corn and soybeans, are widely grown and used as ingredients in many food products.

Are GMO foods safe to eat?

—Yes, GMO foods are extensively tested and shown to be as safe and nutritious as their non-GMO counterparts.

What benefits do GMO crops offer?

—GMO crops offer benefits such as increased crop yield, resistance to pests and diseases, and improved nutritional content.

How are GMOs regulated?

—Multiple federal agencies, including FDA, EPA, and USDA, collaborate to regulate GMOs and ensure their safety for people and the environment.

Do GMOs have environmental impacts?

—GMOs can have positive environmental impacts, such as reduced pesticide use and improved soil health.

Which GMO crops are commonly grown?

—Commonly grown GMO crops include corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, and alfalfa.

00:00Introduction by Allison Miner, a registered dietitian and the moderator of the session.

03:33Chris Wozniak provides an overview of GMOs, including their definition and history.

05:53The reasons for genetic modification and the development of genetic engineering methods.

08:28The types of genetically engineered crops grown in the United States and their prevalence.

09:50Jason Dietz discusses the safety of GMO foods, highlighting their extensive testing and equivalence to non-GMO foods.

10:31Regulatory framework and collaboration among federal agencies in overseeing GMOs.