Fatal Results from a GE Food Supplement
Yes on 27
Label GE foods to protect consumers against unpredictable
hazards of genetic engineering.
The FDA does not fully test or regulate genetically
engineered foods.
The greatest dangers posed by genetic engineering
is its unpredictability and non-recallability. In 1989, at least
37 people died and more than 1,500 became permanently ill or disabled.
The Center for Disease Control traced the source of this epidemic
to a particular brand of L-Tryptophan (a natural-occurring amino
acid often used to aid sleep) produced using genetically engineered
bacteria. Symptoms were similar to those found in petroleum and
other toxic chemical poisonings including hair-loss, skin-hardening,
fibromyalgia, pain, exhaustion, and death. Scientists, physicians,
and lawyers still battle over proof, but many believe these lasting
symptoms are the "first genetically engineered disease"
and believe it has passed on to unborn children. "I am very
bitter about the effects this had on my daughter," one victim
grieved.
Doctors predict the likelihood of future illnesses,
but without labeling, causes (and liability) may not be traceable.
Even with laboratory testing, there is no way of predicting effects
of altered genes loosed in the food supply and environment even
now. Most importantly, what will be the effects on humans when genetically
altered genes combine with other genes in future generations?
All of us are familiar with yesterday's scientific
failures--the unanticipated effects of DDT and PCB’s on the
environment, and frequent, unexpected, adverse drug reactions in
humans including thalidomide, Fen-Phen and Prempo. YET, despite
problems arising in tests on
animals, plants, and soil, untested and unlabeled genetically altered
substances are ALREADY being released into the environment and for
human consumption.
Science is a marvelous thing, but genetic engineering
promises a host of risks too astronomical to be calculated. What
merely human intelligence would you entrust to hold the genetic
scalpel over you and your children? Without labeling, humans are
guinea pigs for profits. Unlike the mistakes with automobiles, there
is no recalling genetic "oops."
Sharalyn Harris
Investigative Writer
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