Genetically Engineered Corn Linked to Organ Failure

Huffington Post reported on January 12, 2010 that according to a study published in International Journal of Biological Sciences, genetically engineered corn, which is used in production of corn fructose (HFCS), has been linked to organ failure in rats.

In a study released by the International Journal of Biological Sciences, analyzing the effects of genetically modified foods on mammalian health, researchers found that agricultural giant Monsanto’s GM corn is linked to organ damage in rats.

“Effects were mostly concentrated in kidney and liver function, the two major diet detoxification organs, but in detail differed with each GM type. In addition, some effects on heart, adrenal, spleen and blood cells were also frequently noted. As there normally exists sex differences in liver and kidney metabolism, the highly statistically significant disturbances in the function of these organs, seen between male and female rats, cannot be dismissed as biologically insignificant as has been proposed by others. We therefore conclude that our data strongly suggests that these GM maize varieties induce a state of hepatorenal toxicity….These substances have never before been an integral part of the human or animal diet and therefore their health consequences for those who consume them, especially over long time periods are currently unknown.”

This study adds “organ failure” to the long list of dangers of HFCS consumption. For more information on genetically modified corn, take a look at our post containing “The Future of Food” documentary.