This is unwise and commercially unsound because public opinion in most countries is naturally wary of genetic food. Despite their advantages many technologies produce disastrous side-effects. There is now a serious debate on the acceptability of some of these unpredicted side-effects, such as nuclear pollution, global warming, and the toxic effects of pesticides and herbicides. Medicines are often withdrawn because the side-effects turn out to be too poisonous. In every case, it takes time for the effects to come to light and be evaluated before action can be taken.
Genetic engineering poses the greatest danger of any technology yet introduced.
Safety testing will never be adequate, because accidents are inevitable and organisms once introduced can never be recalled from the environment and their disastrous effects will spread without limit. It is quite clear even from existing research that a ban on the import and sale of genetically engineered foods and a moratorium on the release of all genetically modified organisms is essential to protect health. In the meantime, labelling should be required for all foods which contain any genetically modified ingredient, even if it is only one, or where genetically modified organisms have been used in the production of the food. Full disclosure labelling will allow consumers to choose what they eat. It will also help scientists trace the source of health problems arising from these foods.