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Genetically Modified Foods Food Safety

Genetically Modified Foods Food Safety. Genetically Modified Foods. What are genetically modified foods? “crop plants created for human or animal consumption using the latest molecular biology techniques.” (Whitman, 2000) Used since late 1980’s Rapidly expanding around the world.

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Genetically Modified Foods Food Safety

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  1. Genetically Modified FoodsFood Safety

  2. Genetically Modified Foods • What are genetically modified foods? • “crop plants created for human or animal consumption using the latest molecular biology techniques.” (Whitman, 2000) • Used since late 1980’s • Rapidly expanding around the world. • Most common crops in the U.S. • Soybean, corn, cotton, canola

  3. GMO Benefits • Enhanced plant growth • Decreased pesticide and fertilizer use • Increased nutrient potential • Increased crop yields

  4. GMO Risks • Emerging allergens • Herbicide-resistant weeds / “superbugs” • Ethical / moral concerns • Decreased biodiversity

  5. GMO Regulation & Labeling • U.S. FDA “currently requires labeling of GE foods if the food has a significantly different nutritional property; if a new food includes an allergen that consumers would not expect to be present; or if a food contains a toxicant beyond acceptable limits.” (Byrne, 2007) • FDA proposed voluntary guidelines for labels in 2001

  6. Mandatory labeling? • Pros • Consumer rights • Identification of food issues • Americans support mandatory labels • At least 22 other countries require labels • Ethical concerns • Cons • Label may imply warning • Increase costs to consumers • GE-Free food already an option for consumers • Difficult to separate

  7. Food Safety • What is food safety? • Prevention of foodborne illnesses • Protection of food supply • Safe handling

  8. Foodborne Illnesses • “caused by consuming contaminated foods or beverages” (CDC, 2005) • There are over 250 different foodborne illnesses • Bacteria, viruses, parasites • Difficult to diagnosis • Vague symptoms

  9. Common foodborne illnesses • Campylobacter (cdc.gov) • Salmonella • Science.nasa.gov • E. coli (foodpoisonjournal.com) • Calicivirus • http://nabc.ksu.edu/images/uploads/norovirus.jpg

  10. Foodborne illnesses • Signs & Symptoms • Fever, vomiting, diarrhea • Diagnosis • Treatment • Fluids • May need to see your doctor

  11. Foodborne Illness Outbreaks • How are outbreaks detected and tracked? • Illnesses happen in a group of people • Reports go to health department • CDC starts investigation • Outbreak ends • Contaminated food is gone, food product is recalled, restaurant is closed or food processing plant is closed • http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm

  12. Keeping Food Safe: Consumer Clean Separate Cook Chill Illustration courtesy of Partnership for Food Safety Education

  13. Food Safety • http://www.5min.com/Video/Learn-About-Food-Safety-97702374

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