A review of researches on the impact of using genetically modified crops in food-producing animals' diet

Genetically modified crops are those whose genetic makeup have been altered; thus, possess a novel combination of genetic material obtained through the use of modern biotechnology. In Iran, the current debate on the production of genetically modified crops, developed by the national scientist, demonstrates the serious conflict between two groups: 1) Agri-biotech scientists who consider agricultural biotechnology as a solution to food shortage, the scarcity of environmental resources and weeds and pests invasion; and 2) non- specialized scientists and environmentalists who warn that genetically modified crops introduces new risks to the environment and human health such as loss of biodiversity, food allergies, cancer, productivity loss and other unintended effects.  In this review, the scientific literature on the effects of feeding GE crops on performance and health of animals and composition of products derived from them are summarized. Moreover, the field experience of feeding the commercial livestock populations with GE feed sources is also discussed.