Final answer:
Many countries in Europe oppose genetically modified crops due to their belief that genetic modification alters the intrinsic properties of an organism. However, scientific research suggests that genetically engineered crops are no more harmful than unmodified foods.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many countries, especially in Europe, oppose growing and consuming genetically modified crops due to their perception that genetic modification alters the intrinsic properties of an organism. However, it is important to note that both traditional breeding practices and modern genetic engineering produce permanent genetic modifications. The US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) published a report in 2016 that summarized the current scientific knowledge on genetically engineered crops, stating that they are no more harmful than unmodified foods.