"This Tiny Moth Is Stirring Up The GMO Debate in New York"

"A new facet of the GMO debate has come to upstate New York in the form of a fluttering, genetically engineered moth that its developers say could help cut down on the use of harmful pesticides in agriculture. But some food safety advocacy groups aren’t so sure: They’re worried about the insect’s safety and its potential to hurt business for farmers in the region.

The issue comes at a time when debate over genetically modified organisms is at an all-time high. While scientific studies have frequently found that GMOs are safe to eat and even good for the environment, public opinion on the issue has varied widely, with many groups calling for more stringent regulations on GMO labeling. This past Thursday, the issue came to national attention again when the FDA approved the first genetically altered animal in the U.S. — a fast-growing salmon whose approval food safety and environmental groups have opposed for years.

Now the new moth, which is being tested at Cornell University, has ignited debate between proponents, who argue that its existence could provide clear benefits for the environment, and skeptics, who are concerned the benefits might not outweigh the consequences."

Chelsea Harvey reports for the Washington Post November 20, 2015.