What Are GMOs, And Are They Safe?

Air Date:
Heard On The Morning Show
In this Oct. 5, 2012, file photo. products labeled with Non Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) are sold at the Lassens Natural Foods & Vitamins store in Los Feliz district of Los Angeles. President Barack Obama on July 29, 2016, has signed into law a bill that will require labeling of genetically modified ingredients for the first time. The legislation will require most food packages to carry a text label, a symbol or an electronic code readable by smartphone that indicates whether the food contains genetically modified ingredients, or GMOs. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

Earlier this month, the U.S. Agriculture Department proposed a rule that would require labels for some products that contain genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, as ingredients. Opponents say the proposed labels are too benign; advocates are praising them for fighting stigma against GMOs. This hour, we talk to an author who has been on both sides of the debate about the safety and environmental impacts of using GMOs in farming.

Episode Credits

  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Colleen Leahy Producer
  • Mark Lynas Guest