Products of gene modification have vast
implications. Creating public awareness and disseminating
information on the subject seeks to demystify some of the
widely held falsehoods regarding genetically modified
products.
This is an informative, thorough and
easy-to-understand guide book that aims to enlighten and
debunk some of the commonly held misconceptions on products
of gene modification and to give the reader a better
understanding of the role genetic modification will play.
The review sheds light on the safety, and application of
these products in medicine, the food industry and other
areas, especially those where genetic modification may
represent a cheap, faster, credible and viable alternative
in achieving sustainable development amongst poor
communities.
Dr. Mirriam Jumba is a lecturer at
the University of Nairobi, School of Biological Sciences,
and relies on her scientific expertise as she explores the
advantages as well as the risks and concerns surrounding
genetic engineering. While answering the questions raised by
consumers of genetically modified foods-foods that have the
potential to solve many of the world's hunger and
malnutrition problems, to protect and preserve the
environment by increasing yield, and to reduce reliance on
chemical pesticides and herbicides-Dr. Jumba also delves
into the many challenges that lie ahead for governments,
especially in the areas of safety testing, the application
of these products in medicine, regulation, international
policy and food labeling.
The fascinating
findings revealed in this study leave no doubt that if the
developing world embraces the advantages of genetically
modified organisms and biotechnology, dependence on the west
can be reduced, ultimately resulting in positive development.
