Abstract

Allergenicity Assessment of Genetically Modified Crops

Naveen Arora, Scientist F, IGIB

Genetically modified (GM) plants have the potential to enhance the yield and feed the growing world population. These GM plants will have desirable characteristics to improve the quality and quantity of food(s). The traits include enhanced resistance against insects, herbicides, disease and improved tolerance to abiotic stresses and nutritional quality. Most common GM crops include soybean, canola, maize, cotton, potatoes and tomatoes. Other GM crops grown commercially or field-tested are sweet potato resistant to a virus, rice with increased iron and vitamins, and a variety of plants made to survive weather extremes. The new prospects are banana to produce human vaccines against infectious diseases eg. hepatitis B, nut trees that yield fruit. Despite such potential benefits, there are concerns regarding possible adverse effects of genetically modified foods on human health, animal(s) health and environment. Therefore, there is intense need to assess safety aspects of GM foods before it enters into the food chain. Safety aspects include effect on environment, toxicity and allergenicity. The focus of the presentation will be on allergenic assessment of these GM crops.