EACH YEAR several million children either die or suffer irreparable developmental defects because of vitamin A deficiency. Countless others are harmed by malnutrition and starvation. Yet many of these deaths would be preventable if we addressed them head on and used the tools that exist to stop them.

One of the key tools is the use of genetically modified organisms, known better as GMOs. Modern genetic engineering makes producing GMO food products relatively easy. GMOs can improve crop yield and greatly enhance the nutritional value of those same crops.

Yet European politicians have deemed biotech crops too unsafe for their compatriots to consume — despite the fact that the rest of the world has been eating them for years with no discernible adverse consequences. What’s worse, these politicians are spreading this alarmist message to the developing world, to countries that desperately need the benefits GMO foods offer to feed malnourished populations. I ask this: How many children must suffer before this anti-GMO propaganda is called out for being what it is — a crime against humanity?

Boston Globe