Problems with genetically-engineered crops in the field
26 January 2010
GE (genetically-engineered) crops have repeatedly failed to perform as intended in the field and have given rise to new agronomic problems. Commercialised GE crops depend upon the consistent expression of inserted herbicide resistance and/or toxin genes in order to perform. If these genes do not function as intended, crop losses may result. GE varieties have also demonstrated new susceptibility to pests and diseases, for unknown reasons. Genetically engineering plants to resist insects also has an impact upon pest populations, since troublesome new pests – that require heavy use of insecticides – can emerge as a result.