Crops which have been Genetically Modified to contain their own insecticide, such as Bt, cause insects to become resistant to the insecticide. Genetically Modified plants contaminate conventionally grown and organic plants and honey. The use of Genetically Modified seed encourages dependence by the farmers on a single seed supplier and may involve the purchase of both the seed and herbicide from one supplier. The farmer is then at the mercy of the seed company who may vary prices of both seed and herbicide at will. The nature of genetic modification and long term effects are not well understood as these products have not been properly tested before being released into the environment.
Genetic material inserted into plants can transfer to animals and humans in the intestinal wall.
Despite decades of targeted and effective internationally funded research, yield levels remain low in Colombia, and arguably, in much of the same Third World which is currently targeted by the life sciences for commercialization of GE technology. Adverse growing conditions, greater risks of pest, pathogen, and weed infestation, and in particular, limited access to purchased inputs all challenge the logic of extrapolating expectations of GE performance from the DMECs to the Third World. It seems likely that the diversity and dizzying rate of resistance development to biocides in the tropics will quickly confound and nullify Bt-transgenes. Indeed, it is at least arguable that GE will actually worsen the plight of Third World farmers. Favor the Rich.