Genetic engineering of food has far outrun the science that must be its first governing discipline.
Many unknowns attend the insertion of genes across species, from ecological risks to food allergies.
These unknowns beg for investigation, stated Nader in a recent letter to the Sierra Club. Nader suggested that a fourth condition be added to the list, that genetically engineered food ingredients or crops should not be allowed on the market unless there are significant benefits for human needs not available outside this technology. In addition to outcry from consumers, a growing number of farmers and farm organizations have been voicing opposition to GE foods. In November of last year, the National Family Farm Coalition issued a Farmer's Declaration on Genetic Engineering in Agriculture which calls for many of the same demands. For too long farmers have had their management practices dictated by corporate agribusiness.