From the outset, I should state that I’m not necessarily against all genetically modified produce. GM cotton, for example, which has been farmed in the Ord for some time, seems a worthy venture. Cotton is a crop that is particularly prone to insect attack and requires massive dousing with nasty pesticides. The GM varieties are engineered to be resistant to insects.
All but the most rampant of anti-GM protestors, then, might accept the use of genetic engineering in cotton production as the lesser of two evils, since we know about the toxic effects of insecticides, whereas the dangers of genetic engineering – if any – are currently unknown. Hemp, which is naturally resistant to insects, and unlike cotton has low water and fertiliser requirements, would appear to be a much better choice of material to garb ourselves with than cotton…but shit, let’s not credit ourselves with being too sensible when the evidence is everywhere that we’re not.
So let’s say we accept GM cotton as a half-sensible measure. GM food is a different story. Dunno about you, but I care a whole lot more about what I put in my mouth and where it came from than what I wear on my body (which is close to a lost cause anyway, however it’s packaged). Continue reading Want GM Food Labelled? Petition The Government Online!
