GM Soybeans Show No Adverse Effects on Rat Health and Gut Microbiota

A study conducted by experts from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences showed that the consumption of genetically modified (GM) soybeans does not exhibit adverse effects on physiological variables and gut microbiota of Sprague-Dawley rats. The findings of the study contribute to the extensive literature proving the safe use and consumption of GM soybeans.

GM soybean was developed to resist herbicides and boost crop yields by controlling weeds while reducing environmental impact and crop residues. In this study, the researchers evaluated the effects of a diet containing 70% GM soybean on Sprague-Dawley rats and compared the body weight, hematology and blood biochemistry, bacterial populations, and antibiotic resistance to the non-GM diet group.

The results of the study showed that the consumption of GM soybeans did not have a comparable effect on the abundance of total bacteria. However, the rats fed with GM soybean showed that E. faecalis was less resistant to erythromycin compared to the non-GM group. The study concluded that the consumption of GM soybean had no significant effect on body weight, serological and biochemical parameters, and microflora of the gastrointestinal tract in rats.

For more information, read the study from PLOS.