The public discussion on the introduction of agro-genetic engineering
focuses mainly on economical, ecological and human health aspects.
The fact is neglected that laboratory animals must suffer before
either humans or the environment are affected. However, numerous
animal experiments are conducted for toxicity testing and
authorisation of genetically modified plants in the European Union.
These are ethically questionable, because death and suffering of the
animals for purely commercial purposes are accepted. Therefore,
recent political initiatives to further increase animal testing for
GMO crops must be regarded highly critically. Based on concrete
examples this article demonstrates that animal experiments, on
principle, cannot provide the expected protection of users and
consumers despite all efforts to standardise, optimise or extend them.
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