Superpigs and Wondercorn: The Brave New World of Biotechnology and Where It All May Lead

Genetically engineered fish and dairy products will soon be available at our supermarkets with the Food and Drug Administration's approval, yet these foods, charges Fox, may have harmful physiological and biochemical effects on consumers. In an important, illuminating report, the popular veterinarian and nature writer ( The Soul of the Wolf ) provides a much-needed critical update on the biotechnology industry. Fox believes that genetic engineering is here to stay, but he strongly opposes the patenting of animals and insists that biotechnology be used with a proper regard for ethics, animals' well-being and ecosystems. Genetic reprogramming of animals, he demonstrates, has caused developmental abnormalities, new health problems and suffering in these creatures while proving to be of dubious benefit to humans. Fox urges a shift to an ecologically sound agriculture based on increasing consumption of vegetable protein, which biotechnology can facilitate. His review of the government's failure to regulate the biotechnology industry is timely. A resource guide is included for concerned citizens. (Oct.)