The issues of genetically modified (GM) crops and biotechnology were hotly debated at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
While defenders of GM crops, such as the Rockefeller Foundation, believe that genetically engineered food will alleviate malnutrition and famine in the underdeveloped countries, their opponents warn of risks posed by the biotech revolution.
The Foundation on Economic Trends warns that scientists are not capable of measuring how genetically modified organisms will affect nature. Director of the Foundation Jeremy Rifkin pointed out that farmers in industrialised countries are paid not to grow certain crops. He called for an end to such subsidies and recommended that the surplus of food be sent to the poorest countries.
Both organisations agree, however, that it could be dangerous to give too much power to the companies who are patenting GM food.
