On Wednesday, September 30th from 7-9pm, the Bioscience Resource Project hosted Public Interest Attorney Steven Druker from the Alliance for Bio-Integrity. Steven Druker described some of the findings of his extensive research for Altered Genes, Twisted Truth: How the Venture to Genetically Engineer Our Food Has Subverted Science, Corrupted Government, and Systematically Deceived the Public. This research included examination of original sources (including FDA documents and scientific papers), interviews with scientists involved in GE research and risk assessment and re-checking his findings with additional scientists. Druker’s research led him to conclude that no GE crop on the market has ever been properly safety tested and therefore GE foods cannot legitimately be claimed “safe” for consumption. During his talk he shows the falseness of claims that GE is a natural process; that no GE product has ever been shown to harm humans; that there is a scientific consensus that GE foods are safe and that GE foods are well-regulated. He also contends that GE is so imprecise and unpredictable that even calling it genetic “engineering” is a misnomer.
Druker proved enthusiastic to engage respectfully with scientists and others with contrary opinions, including those who promote GE crops and foods. After the event he took a wide range of questions from the audience, including many from Alliance for Science Fellows. His answers reflected both the careful research he put into his book and his respect for science and the people he is engaging with, whatever their views. The full (2 hour) video of Steven Druker’s talk and Q and A can be seen at: Altered Genes Twisted Truth Talk and Q&A in Ithaca.
An excellent edited (1 hour) recording of the event was produced by Over the Shoulder: Altered Genes Twisted Truth. This version includes an introduction by Jonathan Latham, Executive Director of the Bioscience Resource Project and 40 minutes of Druker’s talk and 15 minutes of Q and A.
Druker’s talk provides a good contrast and follow-up to the Cornell Alliance for Science’s “Ask Me Anything About GMOs.” event held in Ithaca a few weeks previously.
More about Altered Genes, Twisted Truth
Synopsis of Altered Genes Twisted Truth in Nation of Change.
Altered Genes Twisted Truth reviewed by Jane Goodall in the Ecologist.
The Royal Society’s assault on the science of GM foods must cease by Steven Druker.
