From the Ground Up
by Elizabeth Ferry

The Spread of the StarLink Gene

StarLink is the name of a variety of genetically engineered (GE) corn that produces it own form of pesticide. Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use in animal feed, StarLink has not been approved for human consumption because it might cause allergic reactions in some people.

StarLink corn has, however, found its way into the human food chain. In September, 2000, traces of StarLink were detected in taco shells and breakfast cereals. These products were recalled from grocery store shelves. In an effort to protect themselves from further losses, some producers of corn products stopped using yellow corn, of which StarLink is one variety, and began using only white corn instead. In July, 2001, the media reported that the StarLink gene was being detected in white corn as well.

Whether or not StarLink corn actually causes allergic reactions is irrelevant. What matters is that the potential allergen has evaded the safeguards that were meant to control it.

The Potential for Food Allergies
A food allergy, or hypersensitivity, is an abnormal response triggered by the immune system. The problem may be inherited, or it may develop at some point in a person’s life. In either case, the allergic response comes after repeated exposure to problematic food. Symptoms may include itching in the mouth, difficulty breathing, and/or abdominal pain.

The First Test
After Starlink corn was detected in human food, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) received 51 reports from people who believed that they had had an allergic reaction to foods containing the bioengineered corn. On closer examination, 23 of those reports were discarded as not fitting the definition of food allergy. Of the 28 candidates who qualified as having an allergic reaction, 17 agreed to provide a blood sample.

Preliminary tests run by the CDC did not identify StarLink as the probable cause of the allergic reactions.

Applying Critical Thinking Skills
If the CDC did not find a direct correlation between StarLink corn and the reported allergic reactions, should the FDA retroactively approve small amounts of StarLink corn in human food, as its developer, Aventis Crop Sciences, has requested?

For the concerned consumer, the answer is "no." Consider these issues:

The Importance of Labeling
The spread of StarLink corn is cause for concern among consumers who, due to food intolerances or other health concerns, do not want to eat genetically engineered food. The current situation underscores the importance of labeling GE material, whether in the form of seed, crop, or food products that are presented to consumers.

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