Genetically modified food

The issue of genetic engineering has always been a very controversial one. The cloning of “Dolly” the sheep was hailed as a revolutionary breakthrough by scientists while many groups were sceptical about its repercussions. Only recently however has the topic of genetically creating and modifying foods come to public attention. Despite the relative youth of the issue, it has caused much debate among various groups worldwide. As of now, there is no legislation in Australia …

…knowledge, once learnt, can never be unlearnt. Once the technology has been harnessed, a whole new argument about control, providing safeguards and responsibility begins. Although labelling is one way to exercise control, provide safeguards and encourage responsibility, it alone obviously does not solve all problems associated with GM foods. Ultimately a balance must be struck not only between academic freedom, commercial interest and the wellbeing of consumers, but also between human knowledge and human wisdom.