'GM and kosher?' - the debate continues

My recent article in the Jewish Chronicle is already sparking debate about the virtues of Genetically Modified crops. In addition to positive feedback from GM-sceptical Jews, Muslims and others, the excellent Jew and the Carrot blog wrote the following:

"Michael Green of our ally across the pond, Swords and Ploughshares, writes about the questionable kashrut status of genetically modified foods... While the facets of GM technology that may lead to environmental degradation may place it generally at opposition with Jewish emphasis on preserving the earth, and potentially undiscovered negative health consequences would contradict the importance of saving a life, it seems like there is little that Judaism has to say directly about GMOs. Clearly this is because they are the epitome of modern technology which could not have been imagined back in the biblical/talmudic day.

"That said, it is worth continuing to think about the relationship between morality, religion and new biotechnology, and any potential religious precedent for the precautionary principle..." Read the full article.

On Liberty Forum one reader wrote:

"Funny how "divine" Torahs, Talmuds & Bibles fail to deal w/future problems. I'm increasingly wary of GM food...tiny tweaks that may make crops marginally more productive may have big consequences. Mono-culture & factory-farming already introduce problems yet Monsanto et al want to toss new x-factors into the mix."

You can read my response here.