Study says genetic engineering ineffective at increasing crop yields

According to a study by the Union of Concerned Scientists called "Failure to Yield," genetic engineering is failing to substantially increase crop yields. The study finds that "Genetic engineering has delivered minimal gains in operational yield, and most yield gains can be attributed to non genetic engineering approaches," writes Kim McGuire of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. This claim runs contrary to the notion that genetically engineered foods can potentially solve the world's food crisis.

The study claims to be the first to compare the cumulative effects of genetic engineering compared to other technologies. To prove this claim, two dozen academic studies were reviewed. "The Union of Concerned Scientists reccomends that the U.S. Department of Agriculture continue to support research into proven approaches to boost crop yield," adds McGuire. "Those approaches include conventional plant breeding methods, and sustainable and organic farming." (Read more)