What are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?
When new genes are put into an animal or a plant, it's commonly called
“genetic engineering”.
A GMO is an organism whose genetic material has been changed to produce specific
characteristics. Plant breeders use genetic engineering to make new plants,
like canola. Genetic engineering can be used to make crops better, like corn
that protects itself from insects.
Can eating GMOs affect my health?
All foods that contain protein can potentially cause a food allergy. Since
GMOs contain protein, they can also cause food allergies.
However, there's nothing to show that genetically modified versions of
these foods are any more allergenic than traditional foods. Based on the knowledge
available, the GMOs that we can buy in Canada pose no threat to health.
Canada has approved some GMOs, including:
- canola
- potato
- tomatoes
- soybean
- corn.
Contrary to popular belief, no animal gene has been approved anywhere around
the world to be used in food.
Are GMOs tested for safety?
All GMOs are strictly tested to determine that they're safe before being
produced or sold in Canada. These safety tests generally take from 7 to 10 years.
These tests check:
- the process that's used to modify the food
- the changes that are made to the molecular structure of the food
- the composition of the GMO compared to a non-modified food
- the nutritional value of the GMO compared to a non-modified food
- whether the GMO could be introducing new toxins
- whether the GMO could cause new allergic reactions.
The safety testing process in Canada was developed after consultation with
specialists at the international level from organizations such as:
- The World Health Organization (WHO)
- The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
- The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Health Canada has been verifying the safety of GMOs since 1995. Health Canada's
website has a list
of approved GMO foods; right now, more than sixty GMOs have been approved
for sale on the Canadian market.
Additional Resources
Frequently
asked questions: biotechnology and genetically modified foods –
Health Canada
Biotechnology
– Health
Canada
I
think I have a food allergy: what should I do? – Canadian
Health Network
Offending
foods: allergies or intolerance – Canadian
Health Network
Food
recalls and allergy alerts – Canadian
Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
| 
