GMWatch HomeLatest news on GMO food, GMO crops, GMO labelling and genetically modified organismshttps://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised2024-03-28T11:25:09+00:00GMWatchinfo@gmwatch.orgJoomla! - Open Source Content ManagementGMO Myths & Truths: A Citizen's Guide to the Evidence on the Safety and Efficacy of Genetically Modified Crops and Foods, 4th Edition2024-02-28T12:26:35+00:002024-02-28T12:26:35+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20390-gmo-myths-truths-a-citizen-s-guide-to-the-evidence-on-the-safety-and-efficacy-of-genetically-modified-crops-and-foods-4th-editionEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt; margin-bottom: 25px;"><img title="GMO Myths & Truths" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/GMO-Myths-and-Truths-condensed-front-cover-wide.jpg" alt="GMO Myths & Truths" width="100%" /></p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">To buy a “new condition” copy or copies of <strong>GMO Myths and Truths</strong> direct from the authors at a very reasonable cost (15 GBP per copy plus postage, as opposed to the often hugely inflated prices for now rare second hand copies on Amazon), please use the payment options below to order. Alternatively you can contact:</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">editor[at]gmwatch.org</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">for how to make a direct payment to a bank account. Please note that monies from sales of the book do not go to GMWatch but to the authors of the book. </p>
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<h4 style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 19pt; text-align: left;"><strong>About the book</strong></h4>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">It is often claimed that the case against genetically modified (GM) crops and foods is based on emotion, not science, and that to oppose GM crop and food technology is to be anti-science. It is also claimed that GM crops offer higher yields and better nutrition, that they are safe for health and the environment, that they reduce agrochemical use, and that they are needed to feed the world’s growing population. This book, co-authored by two genetic engineers and GMWatch co-director Claire Robinson, exposes these claims as false, using scientific and other documented evidence. GMO Myths and Truths summarises the facts on the safety and efficacy of genetically modified (GM) crops and foods in terms that are accessible to the non-scientist but still relevant to scientists, policymakers and educators. The evidence presented points to many hazards, risks, and limitations of genetic engineering technology. These include harms found in animal feeding and ecological studies, which in turn indicate risks to health and the environment posed by GM crops and foods.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">The layout of the book enables those readers with limited time to read the chapter summaries, while providing more detail and full references for those who require them.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">The book shows that conventional breeding continues to outstrip GM in developing crops that deliver high yields, better nutrition, and tolerance to extreme weather conditions and poor soils. In agreement with over 400 international experts who co-authored a UN and World Bank-sponsored report on the future of farming, the authors conclude that modern agroecology, rather than GM, is the best path for feeding the world’s current and future populations in a safe and sustainable way.</p>
<h4 style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 19pt;"><strong>Editorial reviews</strong></h4>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Many who defend the use of GMO crops and foods claim that there is no evidence that any GMO is harmful to health or the environment. But this is wrong. There is plenty of sound empirical evidence of such harm, presented by qualified scientists in peer-reviewed literature. This book is a succinct summary and documentation of that evidence.” – Richard Jennings, PhD, Department of History and Philosophy of Science, University of Cambridge, UK</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a very important contribution to the GMO debate. Written in a clear and concise style, it is an invaluable reference for those wanting to learn more about the arguments of proponents and those critical of the technology. I found it of great value in my own efforts to better understand the issue. I hope this information will be widely available to students and to the general public.” – Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE, and UN Messenger of Peace</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Using peer-reviewed studies and other documented evidence, GMO Myths and Truths deconstructs the false and misleading claims that are frequently made about the safety and efficacy of GM crops and foods. The book shows that far from being necessary to feed the world, GM crops are a risky distraction from the real causes of hunger. What is more, there is no reason to take this risk, since GM crops do not consistently raise yields, reduce pesticide use, or provide more nutritious food. GM crops and foods have not been shown to be safe to eat – and both animal feeding studies and non-animal laboratory experiments indicate that some GM foods, as well as most of the chemicals required to produce them, are toxic. Fortunately, the book shows that there are effective and sustainable alternatives to GM that can ensure a safe and plentiful food supply for current and future populations. GMO Myths and Truths is an invaluable and easy-to-read resource for everyone, including students, scientists, and members of the general public.” – David Schubert, PhD, Professor and Director, Cellular Neurobiology, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Genetic engineering and its applications in agriculture are complex topics, even for scientists that are engaged with them. The range of techniques is large, as is the range of their implications for different groups in society, from the farmer, through to the citizen, to the corporation. It is difficult sometimes to have the latest information at the end of the fingertips and to understand the difference in how the same evidence is framed depending on the interests behind the science. GMO Myths and Truths is a great resource for me. It is written in a form that makes it readable to non-experts without losing value for the expert looking for the latest references. It has become one of my standard ‘go-to’ reviews when I need to refresh myself on the history, practice, or technical details in this fast moving, demanding and important area.” – Jack Heinemann, PhD, Professor, School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, New Zealand</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a much needed objective evaluation to separate propaganda and failed promises from the science of this critical topic.” – Don M. Huber, PhD, Professor Emeritus, Purdue University</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“The role of provider of children’s health care has become an onerous job in this modern era. The rapid demise of children’s health where more children are chronically sick than well is statistically demonstrated in the US. The common denominator to all children’s health is their food. We, as pediatricians, have had to become geneticists and toxicologists to understand the impact of our changing food system in our modern agroenvironment and its effect on our children’s well-being without support from our traditional medical literary sources. Drs Antoniou and Fagan and Claire Robinson have provided a concise reference on the topic of GM foods and their impact that will educate the physician, farmer, citizen and policymaker. From this easily-readable third edition, a busy practitioner is able to extract the necessary information on the state of GM science to be utilized in their medical practice. Thoroughly sourced, this book is a must-read to understand the effects of GM food, Bt toxin, and pesticides, including their impacts on health. Its value is undeniable. It has simplified a very complex science without losing its scientific profundity.” – Michelle Perro, MD, Institute for Health and Healing, California, USA</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“To all those concerned citizens, policymakers, journalists, researchers and students who have missed a reliable, unbiased, comprehensive and readable account of plant genetic engineering and its unpredictable consequences: Here it is, and it is a splendid piece of work!” – Terje Traavik, PhD, Professor of Virology and Professor Emeritus of Gene Ecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT – The Arctic University of Norway; and Scientific Director Emeritus, Gen.k – Centre for Biosafety, Norway</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“The global GM commercial and political juggernaut has already corrupted science by promoting a propaganda campaign to misinform the world that ‘science’ has revealed the unqualified safety of GM crops and foods, with no further question. This vitally important book documents the wide-ranging and well-grounded science that demolishes this political deception – a deception that has traduced the good name of science. The book also shows the systematic double standards exercised by those promoting GM, whereby studies claiming to show GM is safe are accepted with lower standards of scientific rigour than those showing evidence of harm and the need for further research. This book is essential reading for all involved, anywhere, with GM and agrichemicals risk and policy issues.” – Brian Wynne, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Science Studies and founding Research Director of the Centre for the Study of Environmental Change (CSEC); and former Associate Director of the UK ESRC Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics, Cesagen, Lancaster University, UK</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is unquestionably the go-to source for up-to-date, scientifically rigorous evidence bearing on genetic modification. As a scientist, I applaud not simply the heavy reliance on refereed literature, but also the attention to organization and interpretation, which makes technical information accessible to the non-specialist.” – E. Ann Clark, PhD, Associate Professor (retired), Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Canada</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a scientifically correct, honest, and accessible discussion of molecular biotechnology that demonstrates why corporate claims about the inherent safety of GMOs and their centrality in reducing world hunger are utter nonsense.” – Sheldon Krimsky, PhD, Professor, Tufts University, USA; co-editor, The GMO Deception</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“The condensed and updated GMO Myths and Truths is a thoroughly researched, evidence-based synthesis of the latest information regarding the environmental and health consequences of genetically modified crops. Updated and adapted from the well-received GMO Myths and Truths, it refutes common myths surrounding the alleged safety and effectiveness of GMOs and explains, in highly readable fashion, the scientific truths regarding this risky technology. I have found it valuable in my teaching and policy work, and highly recommend it for scientists, policymakers, educators, students, and indeed all individuals concerned about the corporate commodification of the world’s food supply.” – Martin Donohoe, MD, FACP, Adjunct Associate Professor, School of Community Health, Portland State University; Member, Social Justice Committee, Physicians for Social Responsibility; Member, Board of Advisors, Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility; Senior Physician, Internal Medicine, Kaiser Sunnyside Medical Center, USA</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“This is an excellent and urgently needed scientific critique of GM crops.” – Carlo Leifert, Professor for Ecological Agriculture, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths provides an unprecedented overview of the current situation regarding genetically modified food production and consumption. Topics covered include the genetic engineering process, the safety questions around GM foods, and agronomic and environmental problems during GM crop cultivation, including weed and pest resistance and the consequences of contamination. This book will prove extremely useful for scientists, policymakers and students. In addition, it will inform members of the public, activists, farmers, and consumers.” – Mohamed Habib, PhD, Full Professor, UNICAMP, Brazil</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a comprehensive study of the myths and facts surrounding genetically modified foods and crops. It illuminates aspects of the topic that are commonly misunderstood. The issues are systematically explained and analyzed in simple language, which is nonetheless precise. I would recommend this book to postgraduate students of genetics as well as interested members of the public. I am confident that it will prove a success worldwide and within Brazil.”– Nagib Nassar, PhD (Genetics); Professor Emeritus, University of Brasilia, Brazil</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“An opt-out clause used by the members of many governments is that they ‘will make no decisions unless backed by sound scientific evidence’. This blind faith in the honesty and integrity of all scientists has proved, repeatedly, to be based on false assumptions. Politicians often fail to recognize that scientists and manufacturers are, like the rest of us, human. They can fall prey to the same ambitions, to financial greed, to a hunger for prestige, and to manipulating their findings in order to satisfy these cravings, just like some in other walks of life. Politicians like black-and-white – there can be no shades of grey or room for doubt, and they leave little scope for scientists to admit that they don’t know, so those with integrity are caught in a cleft stick. Do they speak out and risk being pilloried by those in power, or do they quietly keep their heads down?</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Nowhere is the controversy greater than in the scientific research upon which the reputed safety of genetically modified organisms is founded. We should be extremely grateful to the authors of GMO Myths and Truths for having the courage to review the research and to tell the world of their findings.” – Margaret, Countess of Mar, former independent cross-bench member of the House of Lords of the UK Parliament and elected hereditary peer</p>
<h4 style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 19pt;"><strong>About the Authors</strong></h4>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">Claire Robinson, MPhil is co-director of GMWatch, a public news and information service on genetically modified (GM) foods and crops and their associated pesticides.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">Michael Antoniou, PhD is a Reader in Molecular Genetics and Head of the Gene Expression and Therapy Group, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London School of Medicine, UK. He has 40 years’ experience of using genetic engineering technology, including genome-editing tools, in the investigation of gene organisation and control, with over 150 peer-reviewed publications. He holds inventor status on gene expression biotechnology patents. His discoveries in gene control mechanisms are being used for research as well as the development of diagnostic and therapeutic products for genetic disorders. Dr Antoniou has taken an active interest in the safety of GM crops and their associated pesticides. In recent years he has published papers demonstrating the non-equivalence of glyphosate-tolerant GM corn and non-GM corn and severe kidney and liver toxicity from chronic exposure to an ultra-low dose of Roundup.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">Dr John Fagan is a leading authority on sustainability in the food and agricultural system, biosafety, and food safety and authenticity. He is a successful entrepreneur in the field of biotechnology, having founded, built and sold Global ID Group, a company that pioneered the development of innovative molecular biological tools to verify and advance food purity, safety, and sustainability. Dr Fagan is CEO and chief scientist of Health Research Institute, a non-profit research and service institution dedicated to understanding the links between food quality, diet, and health. HRI Labs applies cutting-edge analytical methods to understand the relationships between agricultural practices a nd the levels of micronutrients and synthetic residues present in crops.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt; margin-bottom: 20px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/N8JNF8DDSYU7S"><img title="UK paypal payment" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/GMO-Myths-and-Truths-UK-paypal-payment.jpg" alt="UK paypal payment" /></a></p>
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<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">To buy a “new condition” copy or copies of <strong>GMO Myths and Truths</strong> direct from the authors at a very reasonable cost (15 GBP per copy plus postage, as opposed to the often hugely inflated prices for now rare second hand copies on Amazon), please use the payment options below to order. Alternatively you can contact:</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">editor[at]gmwatch.org</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">for how to make a direct payment to a bank account. Please note that monies from sales of the book do not go to GMWatch but to the authors of the book. </p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt; margin-bottom: 20px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/N8JNF8DDSYU7S"><img title="UK paypal payment" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/GMO-Myths-and-Truths-UK-paypal-payment.jpg" alt="UK paypal payment" /></a></p>
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<h4 style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 19pt; text-align: left;"><strong>About the book</strong></h4>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">It is often claimed that the case against genetically modified (GM) crops and foods is based on emotion, not science, and that to oppose GM crop and food technology is to be anti-science. It is also claimed that GM crops offer higher yields and better nutrition, that they are safe for health and the environment, that they reduce agrochemical use, and that they are needed to feed the world’s growing population. This book, co-authored by two genetic engineers and GMWatch co-director Claire Robinson, exposes these claims as false, using scientific and other documented evidence. GMO Myths and Truths summarises the facts on the safety and efficacy of genetically modified (GM) crops and foods in terms that are accessible to the non-scientist but still relevant to scientists, policymakers and educators. The evidence presented points to many hazards, risks, and limitations of genetic engineering technology. These include harms found in animal feeding and ecological studies, which in turn indicate risks to health and the environment posed by GM crops and foods.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">The layout of the book enables those readers with limited time to read the chapter summaries, while providing more detail and full references for those who require them.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">The book shows that conventional breeding continues to outstrip GM in developing crops that deliver high yields, better nutrition, and tolerance to extreme weather conditions and poor soils. In agreement with over 400 international experts who co-authored a UN and World Bank-sponsored report on the future of farming, the authors conclude that modern agroecology, rather than GM, is the best path for feeding the world’s current and future populations in a safe and sustainable way.</p>
<h4 style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 19pt;"><strong>Editorial reviews</strong></h4>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Many who defend the use of GMO crops and foods claim that there is no evidence that any GMO is harmful to health or the environment. But this is wrong. There is plenty of sound empirical evidence of such harm, presented by qualified scientists in peer-reviewed literature. This book is a succinct summary and documentation of that evidence.” – Richard Jennings, PhD, Department of History and Philosophy of Science, University of Cambridge, UK</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a very important contribution to the GMO debate. Written in a clear and concise style, it is an invaluable reference for those wanting to learn more about the arguments of proponents and those critical of the technology. I found it of great value in my own efforts to better understand the issue. I hope this information will be widely available to students and to the general public.” – Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE, and UN Messenger of Peace</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Using peer-reviewed studies and other documented evidence, GMO Myths and Truths deconstructs the false and misleading claims that are frequently made about the safety and efficacy of GM crops and foods. The book shows that far from being necessary to feed the world, GM crops are a risky distraction from the real causes of hunger. What is more, there is no reason to take this risk, since GM crops do not consistently raise yields, reduce pesticide use, or provide more nutritious food. GM crops and foods have not been shown to be safe to eat – and both animal feeding studies and non-animal laboratory experiments indicate that some GM foods, as well as most of the chemicals required to produce them, are toxic. Fortunately, the book shows that there are effective and sustainable alternatives to GM that can ensure a safe and plentiful food supply for current and future populations. GMO Myths and Truths is an invaluable and easy-to-read resource for everyone, including students, scientists, and members of the general public.” – David Schubert, PhD, Professor and Director, Cellular Neurobiology, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Genetic engineering and its applications in agriculture are complex topics, even for scientists that are engaged with them. The range of techniques is large, as is the range of their implications for different groups in society, from the farmer, through to the citizen, to the corporation. It is difficult sometimes to have the latest information at the end of the fingertips and to understand the difference in how the same evidence is framed depending on the interests behind the science. GMO Myths and Truths is a great resource for me. It is written in a form that makes it readable to non-experts without losing value for the expert looking for the latest references. It has become one of my standard ‘go-to’ reviews when I need to refresh myself on the history, practice, or technical details in this fast moving, demanding and important area.” – Jack Heinemann, PhD, Professor, School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, New Zealand</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a much needed objective evaluation to separate propaganda and failed promises from the science of this critical topic.” – Don M. Huber, PhD, Professor Emeritus, Purdue University</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“The role of provider of children’s health care has become an onerous job in this modern era. The rapid demise of children’s health where more children are chronically sick than well is statistically demonstrated in the US. The common denominator to all children’s health is their food. We, as pediatricians, have had to become geneticists and toxicologists to understand the impact of our changing food system in our modern agroenvironment and its effect on our children’s well-being without support from our traditional medical literary sources. Drs Antoniou and Fagan and Claire Robinson have provided a concise reference on the topic of GM foods and their impact that will educate the physician, farmer, citizen and policymaker. From this easily-readable third edition, a busy practitioner is able to extract the necessary information on the state of GM science to be utilized in their medical practice. Thoroughly sourced, this book is a must-read to understand the effects of GM food, Bt toxin, and pesticides, including their impacts on health. Its value is undeniable. It has simplified a very complex science without losing its scientific profundity.” – Michelle Perro, MD, Institute for Health and Healing, California, USA</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“To all those concerned citizens, policymakers, journalists, researchers and students who have missed a reliable, unbiased, comprehensive and readable account of plant genetic engineering and its unpredictable consequences: Here it is, and it is a splendid piece of work!” – Terje Traavik, PhD, Professor of Virology and Professor Emeritus of Gene Ecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT – The Arctic University of Norway; and Scientific Director Emeritus, Gen.k – Centre for Biosafety, Norway</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“The global GM commercial and political juggernaut has already corrupted science by promoting a propaganda campaign to misinform the world that ‘science’ has revealed the unqualified safety of GM crops and foods, with no further question. This vitally important book documents the wide-ranging and well-grounded science that demolishes this political deception – a deception that has traduced the good name of science. The book also shows the systematic double standards exercised by those promoting GM, whereby studies claiming to show GM is safe are accepted with lower standards of scientific rigour than those showing evidence of harm and the need for further research. This book is essential reading for all involved, anywhere, with GM and agrichemicals risk and policy issues.” – Brian Wynne, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Science Studies and founding Research Director of the Centre for the Study of Environmental Change (CSEC); and former Associate Director of the UK ESRC Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics, Cesagen, Lancaster University, UK</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is unquestionably the go-to source for up-to-date, scientifically rigorous evidence bearing on genetic modification. As a scientist, I applaud not simply the heavy reliance on refereed literature, but also the attention to organization and interpretation, which makes technical information accessible to the non-specialist.” – E. Ann Clark, PhD, Associate Professor (retired), Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Canada</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a scientifically correct, honest, and accessible discussion of molecular biotechnology that demonstrates why corporate claims about the inherent safety of GMOs and their centrality in reducing world hunger are utter nonsense.” – Sheldon Krimsky, PhD, Professor, Tufts University, USA; co-editor, The GMO Deception</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“The condensed and updated GMO Myths and Truths is a thoroughly researched, evidence-based synthesis of the latest information regarding the environmental and health consequences of genetically modified crops. Updated and adapted from the well-received GMO Myths and Truths, it refutes common myths surrounding the alleged safety and effectiveness of GMOs and explains, in highly readable fashion, the scientific truths regarding this risky technology. I have found it valuable in my teaching and policy work, and highly recommend it for scientists, policymakers, educators, students, and indeed all individuals concerned about the corporate commodification of the world’s food supply.” – Martin Donohoe, MD, FACP, Adjunct Associate Professor, School of Community Health, Portland State University; Member, Social Justice Committee, Physicians for Social Responsibility; Member, Board of Advisors, Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility; Senior Physician, Internal Medicine, Kaiser Sunnyside Medical Center, USA</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“This is an excellent and urgently needed scientific critique of GM crops.” – Carlo Leifert, Professor for Ecological Agriculture, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths provides an unprecedented overview of the current situation regarding genetically modified food production and consumption. Topics covered include the genetic engineering process, the safety questions around GM foods, and agronomic and environmental problems during GM crop cultivation, including weed and pest resistance and the consequences of contamination. This book will prove extremely useful for scientists, policymakers and students. In addition, it will inform members of the public, activists, farmers, and consumers.” – Mohamed Habib, PhD, Full Professor, UNICAMP, Brazil</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“GMO Myths and Truths is a comprehensive study of the myths and facts surrounding genetically modified foods and crops. It illuminates aspects of the topic that are commonly misunderstood. The issues are systematically explained and analyzed in simple language, which is nonetheless precise. I would recommend this book to postgraduate students of genetics as well as interested members of the public. I am confident that it will prove a success worldwide and within Brazil.”– Nagib Nassar, PhD (Genetics); Professor Emeritus, University of Brasilia, Brazil</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“An opt-out clause used by the members of many governments is that they ‘will make no decisions unless backed by sound scientific evidence’. This blind faith in the honesty and integrity of all scientists has proved, repeatedly, to be based on false assumptions. Politicians often fail to recognize that scientists and manufacturers are, like the rest of us, human. They can fall prey to the same ambitions, to financial greed, to a hunger for prestige, and to manipulating their findings in order to satisfy these cravings, just like some in other walks of life. Politicians like black-and-white – there can be no shades of grey or room for doubt, and they leave little scope for scientists to admit that they don’t know, so those with integrity are caught in a cleft stick. Do they speak out and risk being pilloried by those in power, or do they quietly keep their heads down?</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">“Nowhere is the controversy greater than in the scientific research upon which the reputed safety of genetically modified organisms is founded. We should be extremely grateful to the authors of GMO Myths and Truths for having the courage to review the research and to tell the world of their findings.” – Margaret, Countess of Mar, former independent cross-bench member of the House of Lords of the UK Parliament and elected hereditary peer</p>
<h4 style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 19pt;"><strong>About the Authors</strong></h4>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">Claire Robinson, MPhil is co-director of GMWatch, a public news and information service on genetically modified (GM) foods and crops and their associated pesticides.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">Michael Antoniou, PhD is a Reader in Molecular Genetics and Head of the Gene Expression and Therapy Group, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London School of Medicine, UK. He has 40 years’ experience of using genetic engineering technology, including genome-editing tools, in the investigation of gene organisation and control, with over 150 peer-reviewed publications. He holds inventor status on gene expression biotechnology patents. His discoveries in gene control mechanisms are being used for research as well as the development of diagnostic and therapeutic products for genetic disorders. Dr Antoniou has taken an active interest in the safety of GM crops and their associated pesticides. In recent years he has published papers demonstrating the non-equivalence of glyphosate-tolerant GM corn and non-GM corn and severe kidney and liver toxicity from chronic exposure to an ultra-low dose of Roundup.</p>
<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt;">Dr John Fagan is a leading authority on sustainability in the food and agricultural system, biosafety, and food safety and authenticity. He is a successful entrepreneur in the field of biotechnology, having founded, built and sold Global ID Group, a company that pioneered the development of innovative molecular biological tools to verify and advance food purity, safety, and sustainability. Dr Fagan is CEO and chief scientist of Health Research Institute, a non-profit research and service institution dedicated to understanding the links between food quality, diet, and health. HRI Labs applies cutting-edge analytical methods to understand the relationships between agricultural practices a nd the levels of micronutrients and synthetic residues present in crops.</p>
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<p style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 17pt; margin-bottom: 20px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/V2UTJ75BXKUG6"><img title="EU paypal payment" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/GMO-Myths-and-Truths-EU-paypal-payment.jpg" alt="EU paypal payment" /></a></p>GENE EDITING MYTHS, RISKS, & RESOURCES2024-02-26T15:37:37+00:002024-02-26T15:37:37+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20386-gene-editing-myths-risks-resourcesEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/106-news/latest-news/20385" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">What is gene editing and how is it different from older-style GM and conventional breeding? </a><br />There's a lot of confusion about what gene editing is and is not, fed by the efforts of pro-GMO lobbyists. For example, it's commonly claimed that gene editing doesn't involve the introduction of foreign DNA into the genome and that gene editing just makes changes that are similar to what could happen in nature. In this briefing, Prof Michael Antoniou and GMWatch's Claire Robinson sort out the myths from the facts. They explain what gene editing is and how it differs from older-style GM and conventional breeding.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/19751-gene-editing-myths-and-reality-a-guide-through-the-smokescreen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gene editing myths and reality: A guide through the smokescreen</a><br />A detailed report written by GMWatch's Claire Robinson and published by the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament, deconstructing the myths about gene editing that are promoted by the pro-GMO lobby.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/news/archive/2019/19223" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Science supports need to subject gene-edited plants and animals to strict safety assessments</a><br />An annotated collection of peer-reviewed scientific papers explaining what can go wrong with gene editing and why gene-edited products must be robustly regulated, in order to protect health and the environment.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/news/archive/2019/19499" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gene editing: Unexpected outcomes and risks </a><br />An abbreviated version of our resource, "<a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/news/archive/2019/19223" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Science supports need to subject gene-edited plants and animals to strict safety assessments</a>", for those who want a shorter document with less explanation.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/19901-on-target-effects-of-genome-editing-techniques-un-repaired-dna-damage-a-hindrance-to-safety-and-development" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">On-target effects of genome editing techniques: (Un)repaired DNA damage, a hindrance to safety and development? </a><br />This report by GeneWatch UK shows that claims of safety and efficacy of gene editing often hinge on their "precision" in targeting DNA sequences of interest, while ignoring unintended DNA damage not only at "off-target" sites of the genome (those not targeted by the intended genetic modification), but also at "on-target" sites (at the intended edit site).<br /><br /><a href="https://www.greens-efa.eu/en/article/study/behind-the-smokescreen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Behind the smokescreen: Vested interests of EU scientists lobbying for GMO deregulation<br /></a>This report, written by GMWatch's Claire Robinson and published by the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament, looks at the vested interests of those lobbying for the removal of regulatory safeguards around new GMOs in the EU. Alongside the seed industry, three scientist organisations also lobbied for legislative change. What are these groups? Why would they promote a weakening of the EU’s GMO legislation? This report answers these questions by investigating the members of these groups and the national organisations with which they are affiliated. It shows that many have material interests in the commercial use of GM technology in agriculture.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/106-news/latest-news/20385" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">What is gene editing and how is it different from older-style GM and conventional breeding? </a><br />There's a lot of confusion about what gene editing is and is not, fed by the efforts of pro-GMO lobbyists. For example, it's commonly claimed that gene editing doesn't involve the introduction of foreign DNA into the genome and that gene editing just makes changes that are similar to what could happen in nature. In this briefing, Prof Michael Antoniou and GMWatch's Claire Robinson sort out the myths from the facts. They explain what gene editing is and how it differs from older-style GM and conventional breeding.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/19751-gene-editing-myths-and-reality-a-guide-through-the-smokescreen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gene editing myths and reality: A guide through the smokescreen</a><br />A detailed report written by GMWatch's Claire Robinson and published by the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament, deconstructing the myths about gene editing that are promoted by the pro-GMO lobby.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/news/archive/2019/19223" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Science supports need to subject gene-edited plants and animals to strict safety assessments</a><br />An annotated collection of peer-reviewed scientific papers explaining what can go wrong with gene editing and why gene-edited products must be robustly regulated, in order to protect health and the environment.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/news/archive/2019/19499" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gene editing: Unexpected outcomes and risks </a><br />An abbreviated version of our resource, "<a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/news/archive/2019/19223" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Science supports need to subject gene-edited plants and animals to strict safety assessments</a>", for those who want a shorter document with less explanation.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/19901-on-target-effects-of-genome-editing-techniques-un-repaired-dna-damage-a-hindrance-to-safety-and-development" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">On-target effects of genome editing techniques: (Un)repaired DNA damage, a hindrance to safety and development? </a><br />This report by GeneWatch UK shows that claims of safety and efficacy of gene editing often hinge on their "precision" in targeting DNA sequences of interest, while ignoring unintended DNA damage not only at "off-target" sites of the genome (those not targeted by the intended genetic modification), but also at "on-target" sites (at the intended edit site).<br /><br /><a href="https://www.greens-efa.eu/en/article/study/behind-the-smokescreen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Behind the smokescreen: Vested interests of EU scientists lobbying for GMO deregulation<br /></a>This report, written by GMWatch's Claire Robinson and published by the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament, looks at the vested interests of those lobbying for the removal of regulatory safeguards around new GMOs in the EU. Alongside the seed industry, three scientist organisations also lobbied for legislative change. What are these groups? Why would they promote a weakening of the EU’s GMO legislation? This report answers these questions by investigating the members of these groups and the national organisations with which they are affiliated. It shows that many have material interests in the commercial use of GM technology in agriculture.<br /></span></p>GMWatch response to the FSA’s “Responses to questions asked of FSA Board September 2023” - Technical advice: Prof Michael Antoniou2024-01-16T11:04:32+00:002024-01-16T11:04:32+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20357-gmwatch-response-to-the-fsa-s-responses-to-questions-asked-of-fsa-board-september-2023-technical-advice-prof-michael-antoniouEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMWatch-response-to-FSA-241223.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">GMWatch response to the FSA’s “Responses to questions asked of FSA Board September 2023”. Technical advice: Prof Michael Antoniou. 28 December 2023</a></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMWatch-response-to-FSA-241223.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">GMWatch response to the FSA’s “Responses to questions asked of FSA Board September 2023”. Technical advice: Prof Michael Antoniou. 28 December 2023</a></span></p>Euroseeds and CropLife Europe (2023), CIBE (2023) and NGTs Repeated amendments2023-11-25T11:10:32+00:002023-11-25T11:10:32+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20332-euroseeds-and-croplife-europe-2023-cibe-2023-and-ngts-repeated-amendmentsEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Euroseeds-Crop-Life-Europe-Letter-to-CSSR-on-the-Draft-NGT-Proposal-on-plants-from-certain-NGTs.pdf">Euroseeds and CropLife Europe (2023). Letter to Stella Kyriakides, DG SANTE, EU Commission. 26 June. Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/CIBE-Letter-to-CSSR-on-Commission-draft-proposal-on-plants-obtained-by-NGTS.pdf">CIBE (2023). Letter to Stella Kyriakides, DG SANTE, EU Commission. 29 June. Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/NGTs-Repeated-amendments.docx">Repeated amendments by MEPs to NGT proposal, Nov 2023.</a> Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory.</p><p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Euroseeds-Crop-Life-Europe-Letter-to-CSSR-on-the-Draft-NGT-Proposal-on-plants-from-certain-NGTs.pdf">Euroseeds and CropLife Europe (2023). Letter to Stella Kyriakides, DG SANTE, EU Commission. 26 June. Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/CIBE-Letter-to-CSSR-on-Commission-draft-proposal-on-plants-obtained-by-NGTS.pdf">CIBE (2023). Letter to Stella Kyriakides, DG SANTE, EU Commission. 29 June. Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/NGTs-Repeated-amendments.docx">Repeated amendments by MEPs to NGT proposal, Nov 2023.</a> Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory.</p>EU Commission proposal for deregulation of new GMOs2023-10-30T15:52:09+00:002023-10-30T15:52:09+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20312-eu-commission-proposal-for-deregulation-of-new-gmosEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Presentation-COM-proposal_integrated_edited.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EU Commission proposal for deregulation of new GMOs, the implications for consumers, farmers, and breeders, and why the proposal is scientifically unjustifiable.</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Combined presentation by Blanche Magarinos-Rey, Claire Robinson, and Prof Michael Antoniou at the Let’s Liberate Diversity! Conference, Dublin 27 October 2023</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Presentation-COM-proposal_integrated_edited.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EU Commission proposal for deregulation of new GMOs, the implications for consumers, farmers, and breeders, and why the proposal is scientifically unjustifiable.</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Combined presentation by Blanche Magarinos-Rey, Claire Robinson, and Prof Michael Antoniou at the Let’s Liberate Diversity! Conference, Dublin 27 October 2023</span></p>Carbon Footprint of Europe Soya certified soybean meal and soybean oil at ATK. FiBL Austria. Georg Zamecnik M.Sc. April 20232023-05-11T08:29:09+00:002023-05-11T08:29:09+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20222-carbon-footprint-of-europe-soya-certified-soybean-meal-and-soybean-oil-at-atk-fibl-austria-georg-zamecnik-m-sc-april-2023Editor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Report_Carbon-Footprint-ATK_ES-Soybean-Meal_20230502.pdf">Carbon Footprint of Europe Soya certified soybean meal and soybean oil at ATK. FiBL Austria. Georg Zamecnik M.Sc. April 2023</a>.</p><p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Report_Carbon-Footprint-ATK_ES-Soybean-Meal_20230502.pdf">Carbon Footprint of Europe Soya certified soybean meal and soybean oil at ATK. FiBL Austria. Georg Zamecnik M.Sc. April 2023</a>.</p>Comments by GMWatch (with technical advice from molecular geneticist Dr Michael Antoniou) on the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill, application and authorisation process, and public register2023-04-25T11:05:25+00:002023-04-25T11:05:25+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20214-comments-by-gmwatch-with-technical-advice-from-molecular-geneticist-dr-michael-antoniou-on-the-genetic-technology-precision-breeding-bill-application-and-authorisation-process-and-public-registerEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMWatch-comments-on-the-Bill-and-authorisation-process-final.pdf">Comments by GMWatch (with technical advice from molecular geneticist Dr Michael Antoniou) on the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill, application and authorisation process, and public register</a>.</p><p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMWatch-comments-on-the-Bill-and-authorisation-process-final.pdf">Comments by GMWatch (with technical advice from molecular geneticist Dr Michael Antoniou) on the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill, application and authorisation process, and public register</a>.</p>Lord Benyon letter to all peers: Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill - Committee stage follow up2023-01-21T09:38:02+00:002023-01-21T09:38:02+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20163-lord-benyon-letter-to-all-peers-genetic-technology-precision-breeding-bill-committee-stage-follow-upEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/All-Peers-Letter-Genetic-Technlogy-Bill-Committee-Stage-Follow-up_text.pdf">Lord Benyon letter to all peers: Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill</a> - Committee stage follow up</p><p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/All-Peers-Letter-Genetic-Technlogy-Bill-Committee-Stage-Follow-up_text.pdf">Lord Benyon letter to all peers: Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill</a> - Committee stage follow up</p>Open Response to Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill – Committee stage follow up Lord Benyon’s Letter to All Peers2023-01-20T10:24:57+00:002023-01-20T10:24:57+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20160-open-response-to-genetic-technology-precision-breeding-bill-committee-stage-follow-up-lord-benyon-s-letter-to-all-peers-13-january-2023Editor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Benyo_All_Peers_Response_BGM_GMW_190123.pdf">Open Response to Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill</a> – Committee stage follow up Lord Benyon’s Letter to All Peers, 13 January 2023. Prepared by Beyond GM/A Bigger Conversation and GMWatch.</p><p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Benyo_All_Peers_Response_BGM_GMW_190123.pdf">Open Response to Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill</a> – Committee stage follow up Lord Benyon’s Letter to All Peers, 13 January 2023. Prepared by Beyond GM/A Bigger Conversation and GMWatch.</p>Urgent letter from medical professionals on GM mustard2022-12-06T14:43:23+00:002022-12-06T14:43:23+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20135-urgent-letter-from-medical-professionals-on-gm-mustardEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><strong><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Urgent-letter-from-medical-professionals-on-GM-mustard.pdf">Urgent letter from medical professionals on GM mustard</a></strong>.</p><p><strong><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Urgent-letter-from-medical-professionals-on-GM-mustard.pdf">Urgent letter from medical professionals on GM mustard</a></strong>.</p>Yves Bertheau, “Comments on FELIX results presentation by IARPA, Ginkgo Bioworks, Charles Stark Draper Laboratory and Concentric”2022-11-04T09:26:33+00:002022-11-04T09:26:33+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20125-yves-bertheau-comments-on-felix-results-presentation-by-iarpa-ginkgo-bioworks-charles-stark-draper-laboratory-and-concentricEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/FELIX-comments_2022-11-02_final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Yves Bertheau, “Comments on FELIX results presentation by IARPA, Ginkgo Bioworks, Charles Stark Draper Laboratory and Concentric”</a></p><p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/FELIX-comments_2022-11-02_final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Yves Bertheau, “Comments on FELIX results presentation by IARPA, Ginkgo Bioworks, Charles Stark Draper Laboratory and Concentric”</a></p>Open letter: European Commission’s biased road to deregulation of new GMOs 2022-10-04T15:12:46+00:002022-10-04T15:12:46+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20108-open-letter-european-commission-s-biased-road-to-deregulation-of-new-gmosEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p class=""><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/221004-Letter-NGT-Consultation-40-Organisations.pdf">Open letter: European Commission’s biased road to deregulation of new GMOs</a></p><p class=""><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/221004-Letter-NGT-Consultation-40-Organisations.pdf">Open letter: European Commission’s biased road to deregulation of new GMOs</a></p>Targeted survey for the impact assessment of new legislation on New Genomic Techniques2022-07-21T08:15:43+00:002022-07-21T08:15:43+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20075-targeted-survey-for-the-impact-assessment-of-new-legislation-on-new-genomic-techniquesEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Legislation-survey-on-New-Genomic-Techniques.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Targeted survey for the impact assessment of new legislation on New Genomic Techniques</a></p>
<p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/EC-Scenarios.docx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This document, "EC Scenarios", summarises the Commission’s policy scenarios and criteria for GMO crops that it claims could arise naturally and also for “sustainable" GM crops, as found on pages 8-9, 24 and 31-32 of the targeted survey.</a></p><p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Legislation-survey-on-New-Genomic-Techniques.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Targeted survey for the impact assessment of new legislation on New Genomic Techniques</a></p>
<p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/EC-Scenarios.docx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This document, "EC Scenarios", summarises the Commission’s policy scenarios and criteria for GMO crops that it claims could arise naturally and also for “sustainable" GM crops, as found on pages 8-9, 24 and 31-32 of the targeted survey.</a></p>Contact Organics Weed Terminator Performance Validation at Harvard University2022-07-15T10:17:04+00:002022-07-15T10:17:04+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20073-contact-organics-weed-terminator-performance-validation-at-harvard-universityEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p>Contact Organics Weed Terminator Performance Validation at Harvard University<strong>: </strong><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Harvard-University-Case-Study-Sm.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Harvard-University-Case-Study-Sm.pdf</a></p><p>Contact Organics Weed Terminator Performance Validation at Harvard University<strong>: </strong><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Harvard-University-Case-Study-Sm.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Harvard-University-Case-Study-Sm.pdf</a></p>Email to Lardinois Kelly of the Belgian government, with subject line, “Informal meeting on genome editing”2022-06-26T10:11:20+00:002022-06-26T10:11:20+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20064-email-to-lardinois-kelly-of-the-belgian-government-with-subject-line-informal-meeting-on-genome-editingEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Email-to-Lardinois-Kelly.pdf">Custers R (2019). Email to Lardinois Kelly of the Belgian government, with subject line, “Informal meeting on genome editing”. 16 May. [Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory via access-to-documents request.]</a></p><p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Email-to-Lardinois-Kelly.pdf">Custers R (2019). Email to Lardinois Kelly of the Belgian government, with subject line, “Informal meeting on genome editing”. 16 May. [Document obtained by Corporate Europe Observatory via access-to-documents request.]</a></p>Response by Claire Robinson of GMWatch and Dr Michael Antoniou to the UK government’s Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill and accompanying Impact Assessment2022-06-10T09:55:26+00:002022-06-10T09:55:26+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20051-response-by-claire-robinson-of-gmwatch-and-dr-michael-antoniou-to-the-uk-government-s-genetic-technologies-precision-breeding-bill-and-accompanying-impact-assessmentEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/robinson_antoniou_genetic_technologies_bill_response-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Response by Claire Robinson of GMWatch and Dr Michael Antoniou to the UK government’s Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill and accompanying Impact Assessment</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/robinson_antoniou_genetic_technologies_bill_response_update150622-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Response by Claire Robinson of GMWatch and Dr Michael Antoniou to the UK government’s Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill and accompanying Impact Assessment (updated version of 15 June 2022)</a></p><p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/robinson_antoniou_genetic_technologies_bill_response-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Response by Claire Robinson of GMWatch and Dr Michael Antoniou to the UK government’s Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill and accompanying Impact Assessment</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/robinson_antoniou_genetic_technologies_bill_response_update150622-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Response by Claire Robinson of GMWatch and Dr Michael Antoniou to the UK government’s Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill and accompanying Impact Assessment (updated version of 15 June 2022)</a></p>GMO Myths and Facts: What they don’t want to tell you about genetically modified crops and foods2022-04-02T11:23:03+00:002022-04-02T11:23:03+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/20012-gmo-myths-and-facts-what-they-don-t-want-to-tell-you-about-genetically-modified-crops-and-foodsEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a title="GMO Myths and Facts: What they don’t want to tell you about genetically modified crops and foods" href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMO_Myths-and-Facts.pdf">GMO Myths and Facts: What they don’t want to tell you about genetically modified crops and foods</a><br />Download the booklet by Claire Robinson of GMWatch for an easy-to-read introduction to this topic</p>
<p>Sponsored by the Sheepdrove Trust</p>
<p>References for this booklet can be viewed <a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/uncategorised/18765" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMO_Myths-and-Facts.pdf"><img title="GMO Myths and Facts" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/GMO-Myths-and-Facts.png" alt="GMO Myths and Facts" width="100%" /></a></p><p><a title="GMO Myths and Facts: What they don’t want to tell you about genetically modified crops and foods" href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMO_Myths-and-Facts.pdf">GMO Myths and Facts: What they don’t want to tell you about genetically modified crops and foods</a><br />Download the booklet by Claire Robinson of GMWatch for an easy-to-read introduction to this topic</p>
<p>Sponsored by the Sheepdrove Trust</p>
<p>References for this booklet can be viewed <a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/en/uncategorised/18765" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GMO_Myths-and-Facts.pdf"><img title="GMO Myths and Facts" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/GMO-Myths-and-Facts.png" alt="GMO Myths and Facts" width="100%" /></a></p>Sustainability: Commission relies on promises, not evidence2021-10-23T08:48:02+00:002021-10-23T08:48:02+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19916-sustainability-commission-relies-on-promises-not-evidenceEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p>Response of GMWatch to European Commission’s Inception Impact Assessment on “Legislation for plants produced by certain new genomic techniques”:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Sustainability-Commission-relies-on-promises-not-evidence.pdf">https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Sustainability-Commission-relies-on-promises-not-evidence.pdf</a></p><p>Response of GMWatch to European Commission’s Inception Impact Assessment on “Legislation for plants produced by certain new genomic techniques”:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Sustainability-Commission-relies-on-promises-not-evidence.pdf">https://www.gmwatch.org/files/Sustainability-Commission-relies-on-promises-not-evidence.pdf</a></p>Tell the Commission: No to GMOs2021-09-18T08:58:26+00:002021-09-18T08:58:26+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19882-tell-the-commission-no-to-gmosEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><video controls="controls" width="100%" height="100%">
<source src="https://gmwatch.org/video/MASTER_MIX_NO_OGM_14_10_21.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video></p>
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<h3>Keep GM food out of our fields and off our plates</h3>
<p>Big agricultural corporations are using new genetic engineering techniques to force GM food onto our fields and plates without us knowing. They claim these new techniques do not produce genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and should be left out of the EU’s GMO regulations. They want to be able to flood the EU market with the GM food that Europeans have so far refused.</p>
<p>In reality, seeds produced with new GM techniques like CRISPR/Cas are fundamentally different from non-GM seeds. They are potentially unsafe for the environment and our health and have no place in nature-friendly farming. Armed with strong intellectual property rights and patents, multinationals like Bayer/Monsanto and Corteva will only use them to further entrench their control on our food production.</p>
<p>The EU’s highest court has ruled that the EU’s GMO regulations must be applied to organisms engineered with new GM techniques, for the sake of our environment and our health. Under EU regulations, GM organisms must undergo a strict safety evaluation, be labelled as GM, and be traceable throughout the supply chain.</p>
<p>Now the European Commission wants to change the law to exclude some GMOs from the EU’s GMO regulations. Echoing the corporations, it even claims that these new GMOs are needed to make EU food production “more sustainable”.</p>
<p>In reality, this would mean that farmers, food producers, retailers and consumers can no longer reject GM products and opt for GM-free choices, and that GM seed producers would bear no responsibility for any damage caused by their products.</p>
<p><strong>Tell the European Commission it must apply the EU’s GMO regulations to all GMOs, and stop trying to sneak GM food onto our fields and plates untested and unlabelled.</strong></p>
<p>Instead of weakening the EU’s GMO law, the European Commission must fix its weaknesses in the areas of risk assessment and labelling of GM food.</p>
<p>Join us and write your own submission to the Commission’s consultation. We have a draft ready for you.</p>
<h3> </h3><p><video controls="controls" width="100%" height="100%">
<source src="https://gmwatch.org/video/MASTER_MIX_NO_OGM_14_10_21.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video></p>
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<h3>Keep GM food out of our fields and off our plates</h3>
<p>Big agricultural corporations are using new genetic engineering techniques to force GM food onto our fields and plates without us knowing. They claim these new techniques do not produce genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and should be left out of the EU’s GMO regulations. They want to be able to flood the EU market with the GM food that Europeans have so far refused.</p>
<p>In reality, seeds produced with new GM techniques like CRISPR/Cas are fundamentally different from non-GM seeds. They are potentially unsafe for the environment and our health and have no place in nature-friendly farming. Armed with strong intellectual property rights and patents, multinationals like Bayer/Monsanto and Corteva will only use them to further entrench their control on our food production.</p>
<p>The EU’s highest court has ruled that the EU’s GMO regulations must be applied to organisms engineered with new GM techniques, for the sake of our environment and our health. Under EU regulations, GM organisms must undergo a strict safety evaluation, be labelled as GM, and be traceable throughout the supply chain.</p>
<p>Now the European Commission wants to change the law to exclude some GMOs from the EU’s GMO regulations. Echoing the corporations, it even claims that these new GMOs are needed to make EU food production “more sustainable”.</p>
<p>In reality, this would mean that farmers, food producers, retailers and consumers can no longer reject GM products and opt for GM-free choices, and that GM seed producers would bear no responsibility for any damage caused by their products.</p>
<p><strong>Tell the European Commission it must apply the EU’s GMO regulations to all GMOs, and stop trying to sneak GM food onto our fields and plates untested and unlabelled.</strong></p>
<p>Instead of weakening the EU’s GMO law, the European Commission must fix its weaknesses in the areas of risk assessment and labelling of GM food.</p>
<p>Join us and write your own submission to the Commission’s consultation. We have a draft ready for you.</p>
<h3> </h3>Response to EU Commission on gene editing deregulation2021-09-02T14:31:49+00:002021-09-02T14:31:49+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19875-response-to-eu-commission-on-its-plans-to-deregulate-gene-editingEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Response-to-EU-Commission-on-gene-editing-deregulation-plans.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Response to EU Commission on gene editing deregulation</a></p><p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Response-to-EU-Commission-on-gene-editing-deregulation-plans.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Response to EU Commission on gene editing deregulation</a></p>Flemish government agreement with VIB 2017–20212021-09-02T09:03:08+00:002021-09-02T09:03:08+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19873-flemish-government-agreement-with-vib-2017-2021Editor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Convenant_VIB_2017-2021_communicatie.pdf">Flemish government agreement with VIB 2017–2021</a></p><p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Convenant_VIB_2017-2021_communicatie.pdf">Flemish government agreement with VIB 2017–2021</a></p>FoE Australia and GeneEthics (2020)2021-08-03T18:52:54+00:002021-08-03T18:52:54+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19860-foe-australia-and-geneethics-2020Editor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/FoE-and-GeneEthics-sub-FSANZ-re-heme-170920.pdf">FoE Australia and GeneEthics (2020). Submission: Application A1186: Soy leghemoglobin in meat analogue products. 17 Sept.</a></p><p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/FoE-and-GeneEthics-sub-FSANZ-re-heme-170920.pdf">FoE Australia and GeneEthics (2020). Submission: Application A1186: Soy leghemoglobin in meat analogue products. 17 Sept.</a></p>Retailers' Resolution Against Deregulation - New GMOs First Signatories2021-05-26T08:30:41+00:002021-05-26T08:30:41+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19805-retailers-resolution-against-deregulation-new-gmos-first-signatoriesEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Retailers_Resolution_Against_Deregulation_New_GMOs_First_Signatories.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Retailers' Resolution Against Deregulation - New GMOs First Signatories</a></p><p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Retailers_Resolution_Against_Deregulation_New_GMOs_First_Signatories.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Retailers' Resolution Against Deregulation - New GMOs First Signatories</a></p>Gene editing myths and reality – a guide through the smokescreen2021-04-06T20:54:40+00:002021-04-06T20:54:40+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19751-gene-editing-myths-and-reality-a-guide-through-the-smokescreenEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><img title="Gene Editing Myths and Reality" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/Gene_Editing_Myths_and_Reality_front_1200x627.jpg" alt="Gene Editing Myths and Reality" width="100%" /></p>
<p>An unprecedented drive is under way to promote new genetic modification techniques that are collectively termed gene editing – most notably CRISPR/Cas. The agricultural biotech industry claims that these techniques can provide solutions to our food and farming problems, including the challenges posed by climate change, pests, and diseases.</p>
<p>This report, published by the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament and authored by GMWatch editor Claire Robinson with technical input by molecular geneticist Dr Michael Antoniou, looks at the claims and shows them to be at best misleading and at worst deceptive. It shows that gene editing is a costly and potentially dangerous distraction from the real solutions to the challenges faced by our food and farming sectors.</p>
<p>Read the <a href="https://www.greens-efa.eu/dossier/new-gm-technology-has-no-place-in-a-sustainable-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">opinion</a> by Greens/EFA MEPs <a href="https://twitter.com/BenoitBiteau" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benoît Biteau</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/MartinHaeusling" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Martin Häusling</a>.</p>
<p><strong>DOWNLOADS</strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0 0 10px 10px;"><a href="https://www.greens-efa.eu/en/article/document/gene-editing-myths-and-reality" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">FULL REPORT - Gene Editing Myths and Reality Report</a></p>
<p style="margin: 0 0 10px 10px;"> </p><p><img title="Gene Editing Myths and Reality" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/Gene_Editing_Myths_and_Reality_front_1200x627.jpg" alt="Gene Editing Myths and Reality" width="100%" /></p>
<p>An unprecedented drive is under way to promote new genetic modification techniques that are collectively termed gene editing – most notably CRISPR/Cas. The agricultural biotech industry claims that these techniques can provide solutions to our food and farming problems, including the challenges posed by climate change, pests, and diseases.</p>
<p>This report, published by the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament and authored by GMWatch editor Claire Robinson with technical input by molecular geneticist Dr Michael Antoniou, looks at the claims and shows them to be at best misleading and at worst deceptive. It shows that gene editing is a costly and potentially dangerous distraction from the real solutions to the challenges faced by our food and farming sectors.</p>
<p>Read the <a href="https://www.greens-efa.eu/dossier/new-gm-technology-has-no-place-in-a-sustainable-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">opinion</a> by Greens/EFA MEPs <a href="https://twitter.com/BenoitBiteau" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benoît Biteau</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/MartinHaeusling" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Martin Häusling</a>.</p>
<p><strong>DOWNLOADS</strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0 0 10px 10px;"><a href="https://www.greens-efa.eu/en/article/document/gene-editing-myths-and-reality" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">FULL REPORT - Gene Editing Myths and Reality Report</a></p>
<p style="margin: 0 0 10px 10px;"> </p>Response to UK Government’s Consultation on the Regulation of Genetic Technologies2021-03-12T09:06:42+00:002021-03-12T09:06:42+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19726-response-to-uk-government-s-consultation-on-the-regulation-of-genetic-technologiesEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Public_consultation_gene_editing_response_GMWatch_Antoniou.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Response to UK Government’s Consultation on the Regulation of Genetic Technologies</strong></a></p>
<p>By Claire Robinson, editor, <a href="http://gmwatch.org/">GMWatch.org<br /></a>and Dr Michael Antoniou, molecular geneticist based at one of the UK’s leading universities</p><p><a href="http://gmwatch.org/files/Public_consultation_gene_editing_response_GMWatch_Antoniou.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Response to UK Government’s Consultation on the Regulation of Genetic Technologies</strong></a></p>
<p>By Claire Robinson, editor, <a href="http://gmwatch.org/">GMWatch.org<br /></a>and Dr Michael Antoniou, molecular geneticist based at one of the UK’s leading universities</p>DEFRA Gene Editing Explainer2021-02-15T10:44:21+00:002021-02-15T10:44:21+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19695-defra-gene-editing-explainerEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Gene-Editing-Explainer.pdf">DEFRA Gene Editing Explainer</a></p>
<p> </p><p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Gene-Editing-Explainer.pdf">DEFRA Gene Editing Explainer</a></p>
<p> </p>Letter from GGSC to European Commission2020-10-25T22:18:42+00:002020-10-25T22:18:42+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19573-letter-from-ggsc-to-european-commissionEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GGSC-to-Commission_Cibus-SU-Canola_201022.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Letter from GGSC to European Commission</a></p><p><a href="https://www.gmwatch.org/files/GGSC-to-Commission_Cibus-SU-Canola_201022.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Letter from GGSC to European Commission</a></p>Contact Us2020-10-24T12:35:31+00:002020-10-24T12:35:31+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/contactEditor1fiction1@fiction.com<p>To contact GMWatch, email <a class="" href="mailto:editor@gmwatch.org">editor@gmwatch.org</a></p>
<p>If you need to send us anything via the post, please email us to ask for the address.</p><p>To contact GMWatch, email <a class="" href="mailto:editor@gmwatch.org">editor@gmwatch.org</a></p>
<p>If you need to send us anything via the post, please email us to ask for the address.</p>Canadian Food Inspection Agency, April 20152020-09-17T13:51:17+00:002020-09-17T13:51:17+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19532-canadian-food-inspection-agency-april-2015Editor1fiction1@fiction.com<p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Canadian-Food-Inspection-Agency-April-2015.pdf">DD 2013-100: Determination of the Safety of Cibus Canada Inc. (Incorporated)'s Canola (Brassica napus L. (Linnaeus)) Event 5715</a></p><p><a href="https://gmwatch.org/files/Canadian-Food-Inspection-Agency-April-2015.pdf">DD 2013-100: Determination of the Safety of Cibus Canada Inc. (Incorporated)'s Canola (Brassica napus L. (Linnaeus)) Event 5715</a></p>Gene editing: Unexpected outcomes and risks2020-08-03T13:00:12+00:002020-08-03T13:00:12+00:00https://www.gmwatch.org/en/67-uncategorised/19499-gene-editing-unexpected-outcomes-and-risksEditor2fiction2@fiction.com<p><img title="Damaged DNA on fire" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/Damaged_DNA_on_fire_1200x628.jpg" alt="Damaged DNA on fire" width="100%" /></p>
<p><i>List compiled by GMWatch. Technical advisor: Dr Michael Antoniou</i></p>
<p><img title="Damaged DNA on fire" src="https://www.gmwatch.org/images/banners/Damaged_DNA_on_fire_1200x628.jpg" alt="Damaged DNA on fire" width="100%" /></p>
<p><i>List compiled by GMWatch. Technical advisor: Dr Michael Antoniou</i></p>