DNA sequencing showed that Vancomycin resistance in bugs infecting humans has come entirely from the use of Avoparcin and not the use of Vancomycin. Approximately 1 tonne of Avoparcin was used for every 1Kg of Vancomycin. So far there has been very little research done to assess the health and safety implications of GMOs. The insertion of foreign genes can have many harmful unexpected effects, such as the insertion of a brazil nut gene into soya resulted in a reaction in people allergic to nuts. There is a risk of increasing antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
Critics warn of unexpected and irreversible effects on agriculture and biodiversity.
They condemn the immorality of the 'patenting of life' - transgenic animals, plants and seeds. From a vegan perspective, even if no animal gene was used during the modification process, it is likely that animal-derived enzymes were employed. GM material can cross species barriers to other crops and weeds, and once released it is impossible to 'clean up' any unforeseen consequences. Plants designed to kill pests can kill beneficial insects as well and stimulate the development of resistance in pests. Those engineered for herbicide resistance will encourage increased use of chemicals.