These technologies are already being used and, although experts debate the merits of each approach, they are found to be effective in treating the illness. The value of GM golden rice therefore needs to be assessed in relation to these other options. This anticipation expanded the public debate on the role of GMOs as part of strategies to address global nutrition problems. Scientists are also experimenting with genetic engineering techniques to prevent food safety problems. For example, genetically modified Bt maize, which is resistant to attacks from toxin-producing fungi, has been associated with decreased mycotoxin contamination.
Mycotoxins are carcinogens and they can lead to liver cancer in humans.
The fact that fewer feeding punctures from insects are found on Bt maize is thought to mean that there are fewer openings for fungal infection. This paper is based on information collected up to July 2000. In September 2000, a GM maize containing a gene for a particular strain of Bt, which had been cleared for use as animal feed but not as human food, was found to be commercially available in a human food product. The public regulatory response was rapid, and the longer-term implications of this case are now being determined.