U.S. promotes GMO crops in food package

WASHINGTON, May 15 (UPI) -- U.S. officials say a $770 food aid package proposed by President George Bush contains language promoting the use of bio-engineered food.

Proponents say genetically modified crops can result in higher yields from plants that are hardier in harsh climates, the Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday.

"We certainly think that it is established fact that a number of bio-engineered crops have shown themselves to increase yields through their drought resistance and pest resistance," Dan Price, a White House food aid expert, told the newspaper.

Opponents say genetically modified crops could cause medical problems and are being promoted to to help U.S. agribusiness. "I think it's pretty obvious at this point that genetically engineered crops -- they may do a number of things, but they don't increase yields, Ronnie Cummins of the Organic Consumers Association told the newspaper.