Islamic views on Genetic Modification of Food?

Question

I'm doing a research paper and need to be informed of the views on genetic modification of food from representatives of the Islam religion. I requre quotes regarding the view, and the source this view is from.
Put basically, the question is: What are the Islamic views on Genetic Modification of Food?

Answer 1

Hey, I have a book called 'Halal Haram' (Permissible & Forbidden) and there's a section that explains about the Islamic viewpoint of genetically modified food. Here's a couple of excerpts:

"A number of Islamic scholars are of the opinion that GM foods that contain the genes of pigs or animals that are not slaughtered according to Islamic rites are Haram."

"..........Islam is a religion which considers life in its natural form. Therefore in deciding whether something relatively new like genetic engineering technology ought to be accepted or rejected, the diverse implications of implementing it must be taken into account."

" 'O ye people! Eat of what is on earth, lawful and good (thoyyiban)' from Surah Al Baqarah verse 168

Therefore before deciding whether GM food is fit for consumption, there is more to consider than simply whether it is Halal or Haram. The word 'thoyyiban' means good, which includes the meaning that the food must be wholesome, and pure from its source."

The book is called A Guide by Consumers Association of Penang: Halal Haram, published by Consumers Association of Penang in 2006. If you need more info, just send me a message via Yahoo Answers.

Answer 2

i can say there's no problem with that. but i guess as long as it involves plant-based food only. just to produce crops with specific advantages such as improved yield or resistance to herbicides and insect pests.