Pandora's Picnic Basket: The Potential and Hazards of Genetically Modified Foods

Patrick Colgan is the former executive director of the Canadian Museum
of Nature.

The controversies and misunderstandings surrounding genetically modified
organisms (GMOs) are intense, and so this thorough yet lively review by
McHughen, a Saskatchewan plant scientist, is most welcome. He covers a
satisfyingly large amount of terrain. The account of molecular genetics
and related bioengineering is deep but not deadening, and especially
good for contrasts with earlier breeding techniques. McHughen laudably
outlines processes of agricultural production and governmental
regulation, and rationally surveys aspects of safety, toxicity, and
risk. Possible downsides such as novel allergies are frankly examined,
as are the complications of “organic” approaches. Many details, from
the likelihood of superweeds to the conundrum of foods containing
porcine genes for food taboos, enrich the presentation.

The treatment is very balanced, particularly of key concepts such as
the precautionary concept, and there is appropriate emphasis on major
topics such as the need for evidence rather than just opinions, and the
nature of that evidence and of scientific process generally. Also well
discussed are the role of the media and differences in attitudes to GMOs
on each side of the Atlantic. McHughen’s explicit examination of many
well-known cases, such as the Showa Denko contamination and monarch
butterflies dying from altered pollen, is excellent. The style is
humorous and chatty, and there is a helpful glossary and list of
relevant Web sites.

McHughen’s decision not to consider related issues of business ethics
and commercial profit will irk some, but those matters are for another
book. Certainly, he does explain how expensive regulatory procedures
favor large multinationals and how intellectual property operates. His
book is highly recommended for anyone wanting a readable update on the
facts and myths of GMOs.