GMO questions

karenm@vt.edu
Mon, 27 Sep 1999 14:07:21 -0400

I'm trying to write an article for our bimonthly newsletter. The article
will discuss
GMOs for Joe Consumer who doesn't know what he's getting in his food or what
the potential environmnetal impacts might be. I've done a lot of reading and
talking to people here at Va. Tech, but I'm left with some questions that
haven't been resolved. I really need
scientifically based answers, not "gut reactions," and citations, please.

1. Some GMO's could have been produced by conventional breeding practices,
but genetic engineering has speeded up the process. Is this a true
statement? Can you give me examples? If it is true, do these
plants/animals have the same problems associated with them as GMO's that
have bacteria, viruses, or genes from other species inserted into them?

2. The literature says GMO's will reduce pesticide usage. However, if a
farmer can spray roundup over an emerged crop and the crop isn't effected,
won't he be likely to use more pesticide rather than less? I do understand
that Bt crops can result in lower pesticide usage.

Thanks for your help.

Karen Mundy
Communications Coordinator
Rural Economic Analysis Program
Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics (0401)
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA 24061
(540) 231-9443

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