The concern over Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s) grows as more people learn about the issue. Taking control of your own diet and avoiding GMO’s is a great way to send the message that we as consumers do not want these foreign organisms in our foods. This task can be difficult and sometimes confusing. With the worries of GMO’s on your mind, you may be questioning foods you’ve always eaten and enjoyed, especially in the produce department: “What is a Cara Cara orange?” or “Why is this watermelon seedless?” The answer is that these fruits are a result of crossbreeding. Crossbreeding and Genetic Modification are similar concepts, but completely different in application.

Crossbreeding is the natural process that farmers have been using for centuries to breed plants for more desirable traits. Crossbreeding shares similar principles to that of human coupling. Two organisms of the same species will breed (cross pollinate), resulting in a random mixing of genes to produce an offspring. That offspring will continue to be crossbred until desired traits are the dominant, displayed traits. Successful crossbreeding can take years, spanning generations, for example the Cotton Candy grape. The Grapery spent almost eight years crossbreeding various grape varieties to obtain the sweet, delicious, candy like flavor of their newest variety Cotton Candy. (They really do taste like cotton candy)

The process of genetic modification is unnatural and completely different than crossbreeding. Genetically Modified Organisms can be created through the cloning of desired genes and cells, or bacterial infection, where the desired gene is camouflaged within bacteria or a virus and inserted into the plant. The process of gene modification does not require pairing like with like. Bacteria, viruses, genes of different species, genes of different kingdoms can be used in the process. For example, the use of fish DNA to enhance the color of GMO strawberries. The danger of GMO’s is the unknown affects on the plant or organism once these “new”, foreign genes are introduced. Normal functions of the organism can be disrupted or even altered. Inactive genes could suddenly become active, or vice versa, changing the make up of the plant. The nutrition content, toxicity levels, flavor, and texture are but a few ways in which these plants could be affected by gene manipulation.

The difference is clear: crossbreeding is a natural, sustainable practice whereas genetic modification is not. The risks of GMO’s are too high. If a plant were to be negatively affected by gene manipulation, so may the person who consumes that plant. Eating GMO’s is exposing oneself to foreign organisms without knowing how the body will react. Putting a stop to genetic modification does not mean an end to new plant varieties and delicious fruits and veggies. In fact, it would strengthen and restore the need for seed saving and crossbreeding. Two of many sustainable agricultural methods that give control back to the farmer and ensure a more successful crop, year after year.

Written by CB