Why Are So Many People, Especially Vegans, Anti-GMO?

It’s no secret that the topic of genetic modification has sparked heated debates and sparked controversy, especially among certain segments of the population such as vegans. Why do people, particularly vegetarians and vegans, oppose GMOs? Is it a case of ignorance or a justified concern? Let's explore the reasons behind the opposition and the scientific reality of genetic modification.

The Public’s Misunderstanding of Science

The public, especially in the United States, often displays a woeful lack of understanding when it comes to basic scientific concepts. A study after study over the years reveals a staggering level of scientific illiteracy. For example:

Only 53% of adults know how long it takes for the Earth to revolve around the Sun. Only 59% of adults know that dinosaurs and humans never coexisted, refuting the "Flinstones model of prehistory." Only 47% of adults can correctly guess the percentage of the Earth’s surface covered by water. Only 21% of adults can answer all three of these questions correctly.

Additionally, a surprising number of American adults still believe that the Earth revolves around the Sun. This widespread ignorance extends beyond the U.S. to other parts of the world, largely due to religious fundamentalism and political polarization.

The Role of Fear and Propaganda

Another significant factor contributing to the opposition to GMOs is the rampant use of fear by anti-GMO organizations. This fear is often amplified and misinformation is spread through emotional and dishonest rhetoric. For instance, one anti-GMO source describes the production process of aspartame in hyperbolic terms, using emotive language to instill fear and disgust:

“The well-fed E. coli defecate the proteins… The feces are then treated…”

While common sense dictates that the byproducts of microorganisms are often beneficial and safe, such as in the production of yogurt, cheese, and wine, the misleading language used by anti-GMO advocates can easily sway an ignorant public.

The GMO Production Process

Let's break down the actual process of producing genetically modified organisms:

Engineered microorganisms, such as E. coli, are cultivated in carefully controlled environments to produce specific proteins. The proteins containing the aspartic acid-phenylalanine amino acid segment needed to make aspartame are harvested and treated, often after being exposed to toxic alcohols.

The process, far from being a 'fecal abomination,' is scientifically rigorous and regulated to ensure safety. Similar processes are used in the production of various foods and medicines, often with much greater public acceptance.

The Scientific Consensus

Despite the opposition, numerous scientific organizations around the world have made it clear that GMOs, when used properly, are safe. Here are a few scientific attestations:

AAAS (American Association for the Advancement of Science): Crop improvement by modern biotechnological techniques is safe. AMA (American Medical Association): There is no scientific justification for special labeling of genetically modified foods. WHO (World Health Organization): No effects on human health have been shown as a result of the consumption of GM foods. EC (European Commission): There is no indication that foods derived from genetically modified organisms are less safe than conventionally produced foods. NAS (National Academy of Sciences): More than 98 million acres of genetically modified crops have been grown worldwide with no evidence of human health problems. Union of German Academies of Sciences and Humanities: No higher risk in consuming food derived from genetically modified plants approved in the EU and the USA.

In conclusion, the opposition to GMOs is often a result of widespread ignorance combined with manipulative fear-mongering. While it's important to stay informed and critically evaluate information, the scientific consensus firmly supports the safety of GMOs. Instead of fearing these technologies, we should embrace them as tools that can help solve some of the world's most pressing food production challenges.