The genetic modification of both pigs and apples raises concerns about potential health risks for consumers. It is evident that transparent safety assessments are crucial to address unforeseen health implications.
Gene-Edited Pigs:
In the pork industry, gene editing has shown promise in developing a new breed of pigs naturally resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). While this innovation could greatly enhance pig livability and make pork farming more profitable, it also brings forth the question of unforeseen health risks for consumers. The alteration of genes in pigs may have implications on the nutritional composition of pork products or introduce unintended allergens that could impact human health.
Furthermore, gene editing for disease resistance in pigs may involve the use of antibiotic resistance markers, which could lead to antibiotic resistance in human pathogens through the food chain. This poses a significant threat to public health and highlights the need for thorough risk assessments before the commercial release of gene-edited pig products.
Gene-Edited Apples:
In the produce industry, gene editing has been applied to apples, leading to the development of the Arctic Apple, a genetically modified Golden Delicious that resists browning. While this innovation has found its way into supermarkets, the potential health risks associated with consuming gene-edited apples cannot be overlooked. The introduction of new genetic traits in apples may inadvertently lead to changes in nutritional content or the creation of novel allergens, impacting consumers' well-being.
No matter what innovations can do for the industry, the bottom line is always profit. As Wall Street greed skyrockets, the drive to generate profit is pushing researchers and businesses to experiment with our food supply. The problem is, the consequences of these changes, such as the consumption of artificially edited genes, is unknown.
Our food does not need additives to be healthy and nutritious. This is how God intended it. Any changes made to our food, from the addition of preservatives, to coloring, to gene editing serve one purpose, and that is profit, not nutrition or health.