6. PGM: A Source of Scientific Controversy

The first scientific controversy over the health risks of GMOs likely erupted in August 1998, when Arpad Pusztai, working at the Rowett Research Institute in Scotland, announced that genetically modified foods might be toxic. Pusztai had created a transgenic potato into which he had inserted the gene encoding snowdrop lectin. Rats fed these potatoes showed a weakened immune response and stunted growth compared to rats consuming non-GM potatoes to which the same amount of lectin as that produced by the GMO had been added. Pusztai concluded that genetic modification had produced an unexpected toxic effect. However, the protocol used by Pusztai did not allow for the conclusion he drew. This is why all reports from international organizations emphasize the need to design all experiments according to standards recognized by the scientific community, so as not to leave room for “amateurs” who,...