Belgium Researchers Detect Virus Lurking in GMOs

B. McPherson

Throw a previously undetected viral gene into the GMO mix and you've got a whole new experiment.

Independent researchers at the University of Liege Belgium have discovered the presence of a viral gene present in the majority of GM plants that they investigated. They have dubbed the gene Gene VI.

It is significant that this group of investigators have revealed the presence of the virus particle in the genetically altered organisms because they were independent, neither opposing the proliferation nor supporting their use. These scientists were working for the European Food Safety Authority(EFSA).

Genetic engineers use viruses that are generally believed to be harmless to people to carry foreign genes into the cell’s nucleus. Theoretically, the virus will disappear entirely as the GM plant reproduces. Now this group of researchers in Belgium have found numerous incidents where this is not the case.

The researchers are not speculating on the possible toxicity of this virus particle which was not disclosed or discovered during the approval process. It does point to a gap in the knowledge about genetically modified organisms. Much of N.America’s corn and soy is now GM.

A review of the EFSA research in Independent Science News said the presence of the viral gene appears to have been missed by biotech companies, universities and government regulators.

“A review of the EFSA research in Independent Science News said the presence of the viral gene appears to have been missed by biotech companies, universities and government regulators.

'This situation represents a complete and catastrophic system failure,' it said. 'There are clear indications that this viral gene might not be safe for human consumption. It also may disturb the normal functioning of crops, including their natural pest resistance.”  Daily Mail

Spokespersons for the corporations producing GM seeds assure the public that all is safe, citing the millions of people who unknowingly consume the chimera food every day. They claim that there are no substantiated health problems. Could it be a combination of people unknowingly consuming the GMOs and the ignorance of the corporations of the presence of a viral gene in the food? How can someone prove the harm if they are not aware they have been exposed to it?

Opponents of genetic engineering have a different opinion and numerous sites on the Net seek to convince people of the harm being done to our environment and health due to the proliferation of these altered organisms. One site that may give you pause is the Institute for Responsible Technology.

My Opinion: Let’s start by calling on politicians to legislate the labelling of human food that contains GMOs.