It has been estimated that about 70 percent of processed foods in the supermarket contain genetically engineered ingredients.
A number of studies show over the past decade, genetically engineered foods are a risk to humans, domesticated animals, wildlife and the environment.
The environment cannot possibly benefit from genetically engineering crops in agriculture.
The use of genetically engineered crops leads to uncontrolled biological pollution that has certainly threatened plants and animal species with extinction.
Not only has it affected the environment, but human health is also in jeopardy. Consuming these chemicals can cause allergic reactions, antibiotic resistance, immune-suppression, and cancer.
Phasing Out GMO Crops?
Wildlife refuges have allowed farmers to grow crops on their land under the condition they leave some behind to feel the wildlife.
According to a letter from James W. Kurth, chief of the National Refuge System, the national wildlife refuges around the county are phasing out genetically modified crops and a class of pesticides related to nicotine.
The letter did not elaborate upon the risk that genetically modified crops pose to wildlife or pollinators like bees and butterflies. However, it underscored the use of such crops is contrary to refuge objectives such as promoting a natural environment.
Conservation and food safety groups are also petitioning for a change.
How are Crops Genetically Altered?
Corn and other crops grown on wildlife refuges commonly are coated with neonicotinoid pesticides. This is absorbed into the plant and kills the pests that attacks the leaves and stems.
Currently, up to 85 percent of U.S. corn is genetically engineered, 91 percent of soybeans and up to 95 percent of sugar beets.
Lori Ann Burd, director for the Center for Biological Diversity, said, “Fish and Wildlife by this action is showing tremendous leadership in standing up for wildlife and banning two of the most harmful practices in agriculture. ”
Kurth told refuge managers to phase out GMO crops and pesticides by January 2016.
