GMOs undergo gene modification through a complex, scientific process known as genetic engineering responsible for altering the nutritional content of organic foods through technology. A number of selected traits are either added or removed from one organism to another. Although GMOs are beneficial to humans today, a controversial debate surrounding the subject matter has been ongoing for decades. They promote a healthy lifestyle, increase crop yields, generate employment, provide better opportunities for rising scientists and produce vaccines and drugs for effective use.
In contrast, religious groups, researchers, nutritionists, political parties and media personalities have opposed GMOs. The rise of engineered foods in the twenty first century has raised questions regarding the exploitation of nature using technology. They likely cause allergies, carcinogenicity and new viruses. In the context of Pakistan, GM foods are widely grown by farmers through questionable technology. Since our economy profoundly relies on agriculture, native farmers employ alternative means of producing organic foods using biotechnology, a field not so prominent in Pakistan. Considering the evidence, we are not a technologically advanced state.
GM foods have become an integral part of Pakistan’s food industry. Take for instance the milk cartons sold in supermarkets. They comprise of ‘alien’ components that improve shelf life. Similarly, many processed foods are products of GMOs. One such example is chicken meat. Chickens are treated with vaccines to increase their body mass and feed large communities. According to a research study by Waris Ali Gobal, Aleem Ahmad and Hadi Bux, the most common GM crop in Pakistan is BT cotton manufactured in Southern Punjab.
The National Nutrition Survey conducted in 2011 reported that 62 percent of Pakistan’s population is food insecure while the Global Health Index concluded that Pakistan is one of the most food insecure countries in Asia
In a research paper published in April 2016, Jazib Ali proposed ethical concerns pertaining to GMOs in Pakistan. BT rice is grown nationwide and consumers have no idea what their food contains. Similarly, a Dawn report highlighted the senate committees’ decision to import commercialised GM crops. Federal Secretary Food Security and Research, Seerat Asghar reinstated that the bill “ensures checks and balances and lays down a strict procedure to check these kinds of crops.” While plants undergo gene modification, an increased level of toxins leak out during the process that may cause harm to humans and crops. Perhaps the most important factor is the alteration in nutritional quality of foods. Scientists can purposely increase or decrease nutritional value in different food items. This may harm the crops and pose a threat to food security. The National Nutrition Survey conducted in 2011 reported that 62 percent of Pakistan’s population is food insecure while the Global Health Index (GHI) concluded that Pakistan is one of the most food insecure countries in Asia.
GMOs can also lead to certain allergic reactions in humans, as some components of microorganisms are untested for use. Food Security expert and environmentalist Dr. Azra Sayeed stated that GM foods are “fresh onslaught of imperialist corporations” and the government’s “unquenchable thirst for profits.” Dr. Abid Mahmood of the Ayub Agriculture Research Institute held that almost 99 percent of cotton grown in Pakistan is genetically engineered. Pakistan’s Agriculture Research Council (ARC) added that long trial periods are necessary to rule out health and environmental risks associated with genetically engineered crops.
In light of the evidence, technology and nature are immiscible. Although genetic engineering is an integral part of technology and science, GM foods can impair humans in the long run unless we opt for effective checks and balances to sustain the problem. Scientists rely heavily on their systematic procedures and often overlook animal and human rights. They avoid retesting vaccines, foods and drugs. It is mandatory to monitor the harmful effects of GMOs and come up with alternatives to produce better and healthier foods that are not mere products of technology.
The writer is a model and an actor
Published in Daily Times, February 21st 2019.