In this paper we illustrate the issues induced by genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and show as these lead back to a problem of choice under uncertainty. Then, we analyse some of the answers provided by the economic literature on this topic. Hence, we place the issue of the GMOs in an international context. We show that the recent hot debate associated to the GMOs is not particularly due to scientific uncertainty, but rather to the international trade disputes and the economic interests associated to those goods.