Introduction

Imagine this...an orange that contains all the nutrients in a multivitamin, a tomato with more flavor as well as cancer fighting substances, sweeter strawberries, a potato that produces healthier french fries, allergen-free peanuts, a rice high in beta-carotene as well as bananas that deliver needed vaccines.

Is this science fiction or real science?

It's real science and it is happening in laboratories today as genetically engineered foods. To many scientists this is a very exciting time to enter a new frontier called food biotechnology.

But now, what about fruits and vegetables that contain a gene from a bacterium that make these crops more insect resistant? Would you want to eat these foods? What if these crops found their way into our food supply right now? This actually happened in September 2000!

Many people are afraid of this new technology and are calling these new genetically modified foods 'Frankenstein' foods. Should we be concerned? Are these foods safe to eat? How would these new crops affect the environment? Are these genetically modified foods everything they promise to be by their proponents? Or are they something to fear according to several advocacy groups?

Are you ready for the new foods of the 21st century? Are you ready to explore the risks and benefits of genetically engineered foods? Should we consider food biotechnology a friend or a foe?

The Quest

What are genetically engineered foods and are they dangerous to our health and to the environment?

The Process and Resources

In this WebQuest you will be working together with a team of students in your class. Each team of students will complete assigned tasks that will assist them in answering "The Quest".

As a member of the group you will explore the topic of "Genetically Engineered Foods" from various resources on the web. You will be reading pages from the web, which may have vocabulary words you do not know. Please feel free to use the online Webster dictionary or one in your classroom.

You will begin with everyone in your team exploring some background information on genetically engineered foods.

Where do we begin?
Here is some background information everyone:

Use the Internet information linked below to explore the basic questions on the topic:
1.) What is food biotechnology?
2.) What are genetically engineered foods?
3.) What are the potential benefits of genetically engineered foods overall?
4.) What are the potential risks of genetically engineered foods overall?

• Food Biotechnology: Enhancing Our Food Supply - Sept. 2000 - A brochure developed by the International Food Information Council Foundation to describe the benefits of food biotechnology and genetically engineered foods.

• Background on Food Biotechnology - Dec. 2000 - Background information on food biotechnology and genetically engineered foods. This overview is written by the International Food Information Council Foundation.

Where do we go from here?
Let's look deeper into the issue from different perspectives.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Each individual from your team will play one of the roles listed below. (Environmentalist, Scientist, Consumer Advocate or Legislator)

2. Read the articles assigned to your role.

3. If you print out the articles, then underline the section of the article that you feel are the most important.

4. If you look at the articles on the computer, then copy the sections you feel are important by copying and pasting it into a word processor.

5. Cite all references by remembering to write down or to copy and paste the URL of the files you used to complete this project.

Here are the roles you may choose to play:

Environmentalist

You are a world-renowned environmentalist from a major advocacy group. You have been asked to assess the risks and benefits of food biotechnology from an environmentalist point of view for an upcoming conference.

Your main concern is that crops developed from genetic engineering may overcome or destroy the balance of nature. You are also concerned with the need to feed the world's population while balancing the needs for the environment.

Your task is to collect and analyze information from multiple viewpoints and then formulate a statement to present at the World Food Conference on Food Biotechnology.

Your topic at the conference is:
"Are genetically engineered foods destroying our environment?"

You, as the environmentalist will develop this statement based on informed decision making skills.

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Environmentalist:

1.) What are the potential benefits of food biotechnology to the environment and to the issue of world hunger?

2.) What are the potential risks of food biotechnology to the environment and to the issue of world hunger?

3.) Are the benefits worth the risks and why?

Remember:
These web sites provide viewpoints from both sides of this hot issue. Please keep an open mind as you develop your opinion regarding genetically engineered foods and the environment/ world food issues.

• Background on Agriculture and Food Production - Dec. 2000 - Background information on the agricultural industry and food production in the United States. This overview is written by the International Food Information Council Foundation.

• Background on International Food Issues & Resources - Dec. 2000 - Background information on international food issues and resources. This overview is written by the International Food Information Council Foundation.

• Food Biotechnology - Benefits for Developing Countries - Jan/Feb 1999 - Article written by the International Food Information Council Foundation, describing the benefits of food biotechnology for developing countries.

• Ten Reasons Why Biotechnology Will Not Ensure Food Security, Protect the Environment or Reduce Poverty in the Developing World - Oct. 1999 - This article was found on the Campaign to Label Genetically Engineered Foods web site. It is written by Miguel A. Altieri, University of California, Berkley and Peter Rosset, Food First/ Institute of Food and Development Policy, Oakland, California. This article outines the opponent's point of view to the 'potential benefits' of biotech foods.

• Environmental Hazards of Genetically Engineered Plants - This article was found on the Friends of the Earth web site. It outline the possible hazards of genetically modified foods to the environment.

Scientist

You are a world-renowned scientist from a major university. You have been asked to assess the risks and benefits of food biotechnology from a scientist's point of view for an upcoming conference.

Your main belief is that food biotechnology if used in a responsible way can solve a multitude of world food issues.

Your task is to collect and analyze information from multiple viewpoints and then formulate a statement to present at the World Food Conference on Food Biotechnology.

Your topic at the conference is:
"Are genetically engineered foods the cure for world food issues?"

You, as the scientist will develop this statement based on informed decision making skills.

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Scientist:

1.) What are the benefits of genetically engineered foods?

2.) What are the risks of genetically engineered foods?

3.) Do the benefits outweigh the risks and why?

Remember:
These web sites provide viewpoints from both sides of this hot issue. Please keep an open mind as you develop your opinion regarding genetically engineered foods and science.

• The Weight of the Evidence: Assessing the Safety of Biotech Foods - May/June 2000 - Article written by the International Food Information Council Foundation, describing the safety of biotech and genetically engineered foods.

• Imagine a Healthier World - March 11, 2001 - This article was found on the Better Foods web site. It was written by Bruce M. Chasy for the Chicago Tribune. In this article, the new genetically engineered food 'golden rice' is discussed. 'Golden rice' has an increase amount of beta-carotene (precursor to vitamin A) and iron in it. This rice has the potential to be very beneficial to developing nations. Bruce M. Chassy is the assistant dean of biotechnology outreach at the College of Agricultural Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

• Biotechnology - Environment, Health and World Hunger Benefits - Feb. 1, 2001 - This Public Policy Issues paper was found on the Grocery Manufacturers of America web site. It cites the benefits of biotechnology in regard to the environment, health and world hunger.

• Biotechnology - Labeling - Feb.1, 2001 - This Public Policy Issues paper was found on the Grocery Manufacturers of America web site. It cites support for the labeling of GE food products as currently required by the Food and Drug Administration. Currently, the FDA requires genetically engineered foods to be labeled only if there is a significantly changed in its traditional form such as in its nutrient content. Labeling would also be required if the GE food posed a possible risk of an allergic reaction or other safety concerns.

• New Food Biotech Analysis Reduces Allergy Risks - Mar./Apr. 1997 - Article written by the International Food Information Council Foundation, describing the process to ensure that biotech foods will be introduced into the food supply without any significant risk to people with food allergies.

Consumer Advocate

You are a concerned consumer who wants to know more about genetically engineered foods and how these foods may affect the health of your family. As a concerned citizen you have posted a web page on the internet to inform other families about genetically modified foods and the potential health issues associated with these foods. You have been asked to assess the risks and benefits of food biotechnology from a consumer's point of view for an upcoming conference.

Your task is to collect and analyze information from multiple viewpoints and then formulate a statement to present at the World Food Conference on Food Biotechnology.

Your topic at the conference is:
"What the consumer needs to know about genetically engineered foods?"

You, as the consumer advocate will develop this statement based on informed decision making skills.

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Consumer Advocate:

1.) What should the consumer know about genetically engineered foods?

2.) What are the benefits of genetically engineered foods from the consumer's perspective?

3.) What are the risks of genetically engineered foods from the consumer's perspective?

4.) Do these benefits outweigh the risks and why?

5.) Should genetically engineered foods be labeled?

Remember:
These web sites provide viewpoints from both sides of this hot issue. Please keep an open mind as you develop your opinion regarding genetically engineered foods and the consumer.

• Genetically Engineered Foods Causing Some Concerns - Sept. 26, 2000 - Article found on CNN.com regarding the recall of Kraft foods 'Taco Bell' taco shells that contained corn flour made from a genetically engineered corn known as StarLink. StarLink which is produced by Aventis, contains a bacterium gene that makes it toxic to the corn bore pest. There is also concern that it could also cause an allegic reaction in humans. The StarLInk corn is only approved to be used in animal feed and not for human consumption.

• Seed Company Drops Biotech Corn in Wake of Second Recall - Article found on CNN.com regarding the recall of Safeway taco shells that contain corn flour made from genetically engineered StarLink corn. This is a second recall on taco shells within a month due to the use of StarLink corn.

• The Good, the Bad and the Genetically Engineered - Jan. 13, 2000 - Article found on CNN.com regarding the potential risks and benefits of genetically engineered foods.

• Food Makers Want Biotech Food Tests - May 4, 2000 - AP - This article was found on Better Food web site and written by the Associated Press. In this article the Grocery Manufacturers of America members want the government to develop tests that will help them tell apart the genetically engineered crops from those of conventional varieties. The GMA members also want to know whether ingredients in processed food items include gene-altered crops.

• Health Risks Associated with GE Foods - This article was found on the Friends of the Earth web site. It describes potential health risks from genetically engineered foods.

Legislator

You are a very powerful legislator on the Food and Agriculture Committee in Washington, D.C. Your constituents have asked you to sponsor a bill that would require the labeling of genetically modified foods. You have been asked to describe labeling requirements as outlined in your bill at an upcoming conference.

Your task is to collect and analyze information from multiple viewpoints and then formulate a statement to present at the World Food Conference on Food Biotechnology.

Your topic at the conference is:
"Should genetically engineered food be labeled and why?"

You, as the legislator will develop this statement based on informed decision making skills.

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Legislator:

1.) Should genetically engineered food be labled and why?

2.) What are the benefits of labeling genetically engineered foods?

3.) What are the risks for labeling genetically engineered foods?

4.) Is there a need to label genetically engineered foods from the consumer's point of view?

Remember:
These web sites provide viewpoints from both sides of this hot issue. Please keep an open mind as you develop your opinion regarding genetically engineered foods and labeling requirements.

• GMA Says Massachusetts Mandatory Labeling Bill 'Unnecessary and Redundant' - May 23, 2001 - This article was found on the Better Foods web site and written by PR Newswire. In this article the Grocery Manufacturers of America urged members of the MA Joint Committee on Commerce and Labor to reject a State proposal for mandatory labels for biotech foods.

• Biotechnology Labeling Legislation - Apr. 11, 2001 - This Public Policy Issues paper was found on the Grocery Manufacturers of America web site. It cites GMA's position regarding the labeling of genetically engineered foods.

• Consumer Union Supports Genetically Engineered Food Labeling Bill - Feb. 22, 2000 - This article outlined the Consumer Union's support of the Genetically Engineered Food Labeling Bill sponsored by U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer from California. The Consumer Union is the nonprofit publisher of the Consumer Reports magazine.

• About the Campaign to Label Genetically Engineered Foods - Mar. 1999 - This is a description of a national campaign to label genetically engineered foods. This web site provides the opposition's point of view regarding genetically engineered foods and the reasons for labling such foods. It outlines such a labeling bill sponsored by U.S. Representative Dennis Kucinich (D - Ohio) . The Genetically Engineered Food Right to Know Act HR 3377 was introduced to the House of Representative in November 1999. Beware: This site requests donations for its cause.

• Summary of the 'Genetically Engineered Food Right to Know Act - Summary was found on the Campaign to Label Genetically Engineered Food web site. It outlines a summary of the proposed labeling bill sent to Congress in November 1999.

• The Need for Labeling Genetically Engineered Foods - This article was found on the Friends of the Earth web site. It oulines the concerns with genetically engineered foods such as: Religious and Ethical, Environmental, Economic, and Health and Safety.

It's time to debate, discuss, and reach consensus about the issues regarding genetically engineered foods.

Welcome to the World Food Conference on Food Biotechnology

The theme of this year's conference is:

"What are genetically engineered foods and are they dangerous to our health and to the environment?"

Our conference includes speakers from multiple points of view on this very hot issue. The purpose of this conference is to debate the risks and benefits of genetically modified foods.

The topics to be covered during this conference include:

* "Are genetically engineered foods destroying our environment?"

* "Are genetically engineered foods the cure for world food issues?"

* "What the consumer needs to know about genetically engineered foods?"

* "Should genetically engineered food be labeled and why?"

Task #1:

Your first task is to meet with other participants of like roles at the World Food Conference and to develop a statement, as a group, to present at this conference.

Group 1 - all environmentalists

Group 2 - all scientists

Group 3 - all consumer advocates

Group 4 - all legislators

This statement will be an opinion supported by facts that is reached by your specific group. It should illustrate the group's viewpoint concerning genetically engineered foods as it addresses the specific questions outlined for your role. The statement must address the specific topic assigned to your role for this conference. It will include a five to ten minute presentation as well as the written statement.

Your group is also expected to have visuals such as a poster, video, photographs or a Powerpoint slide show etc. as part of your speech at the World Food Conference. All team members of your group are expected to do a part of the five to ten minute presentation. Submit your team's written statement to your teacher upon the completion of this project .

Task #2:

Your second task at the conference is to regroup with your original team (environmentalist, scientist, consumer, legislator) and to come to a consensus as to:

1.) Whether genetically engineered foods need to be labled and if so what should be listed on that label?

2.) Whether genetically engineered foods are a hazard to the environment and if so, should they only be allowed under strict government regulation? If stricter govenment regulations are needed, then what should be listed in these regulations?

Remember:
Your team may not leave this conference until a consensus can be reached on the issue outlined above.

Your team, as participants of this conference, will be issuing position papers from the World Food Association on these specific topics:

"Should there be government regulations requiring genetically engineered foods to be labeled?"

"Should there be government regulations to protect the environment from genetically engineered crops?"

Each team will write a position paper for each of the two topics as listed above. These position papers must address the questions above and be supported by facts as well as valid reasons for your team's opinion on these two specific issues. Be prepared to present your position papers at the conference with all your team members participating. Submit your team's two position papers to your teacher upon the completion of this project.

Conclusion

So, are genetically engineered foods facts or fiction, friend or foe? Would you eat genetically engineered foods now? Do you now know where to find them in the grocery store? Should they be labeled? Do they harm the environment? Are they 'Frankenstein' foods or the new foods of the 21st century?

Hope you enjoyed your exploration of these new food items and learning how the science of genetics has a direct influence on your daily life.

The next time you pick up a piece of fruit or snack on a taco chip you may be consuming a genetically modified food. Beware!