The idea that GM technology can solve the problem of world hunger, or be a tool towards ending hunger, is compelling but false, says an easy-to-read new report by the Canadian Biotechnology Action Network (CBAN)

EXCERPT: Four GM crops account for almost 100% of worldwide GM crop acreage: soy, corn, cotton, and canola… All four have been developed for large-scale industrial farming systems and are used as cash crops for export, to produce fuel, or for processed food and animal feed. There are very few GM fruits and vegetables on the market, or GM grains that are used for direct human consumption. In fact, shifts to commodity farming have displaced the cultivation of important local food crops.

Will GM crops feed the world?

Canadian Biotechnology Action Network (CBAN), October 2014
http://www.cban.ca/Resources/Topics/Feeding-the-World/Will-GM-Crops-Feed-the-World
Direct link to report:
http://www.cban.ca/content/download/4396/23793/file/Will%20GM%20Crops%20Feed%20the%20World?%20cban%20report%202014.pdf

Summary

The promise that genetically modified crops can “feed the world” is largely used by the biotechnology industry to encourage widespread acceptance of this controversial technology, but it is disconnected from the complex reality of world hunger and the limitations of GM crops themselves.

This report challenges the assertion made by the biotechnology industry that genetically modified (GM) crops are needed to “feed the world”. The argument that this technology can solve the problem of world hunger, or be a tool towards ending hunger, is compelling but false.

Experience with GM crops shows that the application of GM technology is more likely to enhance and entrench the social, economic and environmental problems created by industrial agriculture and corporate control.

1. GM crops on the market are not designed to address hunger.
2. GM crops do not increase yields.
3. GM crops do not increase farmer incomes.
4. GM crops increase pesticide use and harm the environment.
5. GM crops are patented and owned by large corporations.