ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at genetically modified organisms (GMO) and biotechnology using some of the basic principles from S. Y. Al-Qaradawi. Even if the GMO product is safe, if Muslim consumers feel that introducing pig genes into plants violates their religious responsibility, then such food is considered doubtful. The use of genes from haram animals put into halal animals or plants is going to be hard to gain acceptance. It will be difficult to convince Muslim consumers about the benefits of these GMO. A transfer of an animal gene from a halal animal to bacteria that then is used to manufacture enzymes and other bioactive ingredients is also acceptable as long as the safety of such ingredients is established beyond doubt and the production process is halal. Other biotechnology-related issues such as cloning animals for food use and designing new species of animals are going to be equally challenging for Muslims.
