Which statement reflects a common public concern about GMOs?

Which statement reflects a common public concern about GMOs?

• A. GMOs are universally accepted as safe.
• B. GMOs are known to give birth to genetically modified plants which can transfer the genetic element to unmodified crops.
• C. GMOs have no ecological impact.
• D. GMOs do not require regulatory oversight.

Answer: (B)

Public concern centers on gene flow from GM crops to non-GM crops. People worry that the modified genetic material can move from a genetically engineered plant to conventional, organic, or wild relatives through cross-pollination or pollen drift. If this happens, the introduced trait could appear in crops that were not intended to be GM, which can affect seed purity, farm economics, labeling, and consumer choice, and it raises broader ecological questions about unintended spread and impacts on biodiversity. The other statements imply absolute safety, no ecological effect, or no need for regulatory oversight, which run counter to the many debates, safeguards, and ongoing oversight that characterize real-world GMO discussions.

Public concern centers on gene flow from GM crops to non-GM crops. People worry that the modified genetic material can move from a genetically engineered plant to conventional, organic, or wild relatives through cross-pollination or pollen drift. If this happens, the introduced trait could appear in crops that were not intended to be GM, which can affect seed purity, farm economics, labeling, and consumer choice, and it raises broader ecological questions about unintended spread and impacts on biodiversity. The other statements imply absolute safety, no ecological effect, or no need for regulatory oversight, which run counter to the many debates, safeguards, and ongoing oversight that characterize real-world GMO discussions.