Which of the following have been the reasons for opposition to Bt crops in India?

1. Bt crops have been created by inserting a gene from soil bacteria into its genome
2. There is a feeling that Bt toxin may get activates in the body and may cause leaky gut syndrome.
3. The seeds of Bt crops such as Bt Brinjal are terminator seeds and require buying seeds every season again and again
4. Introduction of Bt crops may affect bio diversity

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only

Ans– b

Explanation-

Statement 1 is correct. Bt means Bacillus thuringiensis which is a gram positive soil dwelling bacteria. See here.

Statement 2 is correct Bt toxins harms the digestive system by effectively attacking normal gut cells and making holes in the intestines. This can cause problems such as leaky gut syndrome. See here

Statement 3 is wrong. It is just a myth which is not proven yet for case of Bt brinjal. See thisHindu article.

Statement 4 is correct as Bt crops can affect Bio-diversity