Henry Ford Community College, Biology, Dearborn, MI 48128
With the production of genetically modified crops, specifically corn and soybeans, at an all time high, it seems that supermarkets and grocery stores should be saturated with genetically modified products. The goal of this study was to discover if in fact genetic modifications would be found in said commonly genetically modified human foods. By using DNA extraction and PCR techniques, then performing electrophoresis, the study was able to determine human foods that contained genetically modified ingredients. Of the human foods purchased, only the cornmeal returned positive results for containing genetically modified ingredients. Along with human food, there was also evidence that genetically modified crops were being utilized to produce certain types of animal feed. However, dog food had never been tested for genetically modified ingredients. With this realization, the study was broadened to include this untested food group. DNA extraction and PCR techniques, as well as electrophoresis were performed again on twelve different brands and types of dog food. The results showed evidence that seven of the twelve dog foods contained genetically modified ingredients. This study reveals that genetic modifications are being infiltrated in the consumer market as well as in the manufacturing of dog food.
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