Michael Gerson’s column regarding genetically modified organisms (Herald, May 17) is a prime example of sloppy journalism, as it is both opinionated and factually wrong.
But first, I would like to say that whether or not people believe that GMOs are bad, one must think about the things Gerson didn’t mention, such as why 64 countries in the world ban them, and why a company like Monsanto spends billions of dollars to fight labeling. Nobody is demanding (at this time, anyway) that they stop production of GMOs, rather to simply label them. Why is it worth billions to them when the labeling is already in place for products exported to countries who require it. People should also be thinking of why a corporation should have that much power over the food supply.
Regarding responsible food chain’s “pseudoscientific nonsense about GMOs,” that is clearly an opinion. Studies do exist that suggest that GMOs cause harm, but you won’t hear Monsanto talking about them. Why would anyone trust what a mega corporation has to say, anyway? The World Health Organization just classified glyphosate, (the main ingredient in Roundup weed killer) a “probable carcinogen.” You won’t hear Monsanto talking about that, either.
Gerson states that GMOs “control pests without spraying,” but this is not true. That is the point of GMO plants – they are modified to withstand megadoses of herbicides and pesticides. The weeds die, but the plant survives. Unfortunately, weeds are now growing resistant, and now “super weeds” are surviving, making it necessary to use even stronger chemicals. Same is true of insects. The seeds from GMOs can also contaminate surrounding fields of non-GMO plants. Monsanto patents their seeds, making farmers unable to replant from previous year’s crops. They have to buy new seeds every year.
GMOs are all about profit, not the well-being of people.
Michelle Brawley
Durango
Editor’s note: Michael Gerson writes a syndicated column expressing his personal views on matters of public concern. The Herald publishes his column from time to time, always on the Opinion page.
