Comparison of peeled Innate™ Russet Burbank (foreground) to conventional peeled Russet Burbank after 30 minutes.
New GMO Potato Debate Raises Questions about Health Risks
A new GMO potato is trying to get acceptance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although the potato, called Innate, received approval from the Department of Agriculture, there are still questions about its safety and health risks. These genetically modified potatoes are not available on store shelves at this time, but they are getting closer to your dinner plate.
The Innate Potato
Researchers used gene silencing to change the common potato. They state that the Innate potato will not have as many bruises. In addition, it should have less acrylamide. Acrylamide has been linked to a higher risk of cancer, so the makers of the Innate potato claim their version is healthier. They plan to market this idea heavily once the potato is approved. The main reasons for the creation of this GMO potato seem to be linked to farmers’ profits. A potato that does not get as many bruises and does not brown easily can last longer. It is estimated 1.4 billion potatoes are thrown away each year because of these issues.
No Labels
One of the issues being raised by critics is that the new GMO potato will not be labeled as a genetically modified product. They are worried consumers will be eating the potatoes without realizing they are the result of gene silencing. The Center for Food Safety (CFS) states that the limited information about GMOs makes it difficult to predict how the health of consumers will be affected. The center points out that gene silencing may be affecting more than the expected targets, so these potatoes are unpredictable. Several brands have spoken out against the new GMO potato and state they will not use it. Frito-Lay and McDonald’s may be joined by other brands that refuse to use it because of health concerns and consumer backlash.
What are your thoughts on the the new GMO potato? I’d love to hear your comments.
SOURCE:
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/01/13/376184710/gmo-potatoes-have-arrived-but-will-anyone-buy-them
http://www.simplotplantsciences.com/
I definitely want to know if there are GMO’s in my food so I know what to stay away from!
I support GMO labeling. I joined a group of people to go after companies that don’t care, and lobbying with government officials.
Great Jerry! Sometimes I thing the all powerful Monsanto is too big to get around. We really need to be able to know what we are buying if it is GMO or not.
GMO is the bad idea in all senses.
Amen to that Igor