Letters to the Editor

Dear Jackson Lindstrom, 

I want to say that you make a strong case for the advantages of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in your piece titled "GMOs are misunderstood in the garden" (April 24, 2025), highlighting how they can improve food security and fight climate change. As he correctly notes, GMOs have the potential to boost crop yields, lower the need for pesticides, and increase resistance to environmental stressors.

Even if there is broad scientific agreement regarding the safety and usefulness of GMOs, it is crucial to take into account the concerns expressed by groups such as The Non-GMO Project. These worries are frequently motivated by a desire for openness, ethical issues, and biodiversity preservation rather than a rejection of science.

For example, monocultures have resulted from the dominance of some GMO crops, which can lower genetic diversity and make a crop more susceptible to pests and diseases. Furthermore, there are moral concerns regarding farmers' rights and seed access when big businesses patent genetically modified seeds.

GMO foods are useful in certain cases. GMO food has been proven to reduce the amount of harmful chemicals and pesticides that are used on crops. The harm with GMO food is that there can be antibiotic resistance growth in individuals who consume these foods. This is a major health concern because antibiotic resistance can affect the medication process for those diagnosed with serious diseases such as gonorrhea and tuberculosis. 

It would be more fruitful to have open discussions that consider the socioeconomic effects of GMOs as well as their scientific advantages, rather than completely discounting these worries. We may strive toward creative and equitable agriculture methods by encouraging inclusive conversations.

I urge readers to think about the complex issues surrounding genetically modified organisms and to back laws that advance openness, moral behavior, and agricultural sustainability.

Sincerely, 

Anthony Guzman
Third-year communications major and nutrition minor