10/06/08 Genetic Engineering

To genetically modify, or not to modify, that was the question. The question now is whether to allow genetically modified animals into the U.S. food chain. The FDA has released a list of detailed guidelines that producers of genetically engineered animals would have to adhere to in determining whether these animals pose any risk to humans, the environment, or the animals themselves. These guidelines move the now decades old technology of genetic engineering of animals one plate closer to America's dinner table. While genetically engineered animals have been in development for quite some time, none of them have yet been approved by the FDA for marketing. Several consumer advocate groups are voicing concerns in regard to the FDA approval process for these animals, citing the hit and miss regulations for labeling foods produced from bioengineered animals. The FDA is encouraging public opinion comments on its proposals until November 18th. So let them know; are you concerned about whether your ham or bacon came from pigs engineered with mouse genes?