GE Farming

Victorian farmers are lobbying for permission to grow genetically manipulated crops, arguing that they need to do this to compete on international markets. In Brandenburg, Germany the same arguments are being used by farmers growing GE crops against their neighbouring organic and conventional farmers who are trying to protect their right to grow crops which are not contaminated by GE substances in the environment.
As well as the effect of GE crops on surrounding farms, the health effects if they are consumed are now just beginning to be established. It was reported here that there is a toxic effect on kidneys and livers of research animals.
GE foodstuffs contain substances which have never before been consumed by humans in their entire genetic history. We have not co-evolved with these substances as we have with other foodstuffs so our digestive systems have not evolved strategies for dealing with them. These substances have been shown to find their way into the bloodstream.
GE substances are unknown in the evolution of all life forms. No animals or plants have yet adapted to living with them. Unlike natural toxins which are processed by the organism which consumes them through specialised organs developed for dealing with them, GE substances are strangers to living beings.
Farmers cover their risks by insuring themselves against legal claims from those who can prove they have suffered losses. Insurance companies can insure against the losses of individual farmers, but the broader social damage cannot be insured and money cannot compensate adequately for permanent injuries to the body.
Maybe a better approach for future competitiveness of farmers would be to ensure their region is known internationally as GE free.