The Effects Of Genetically Modified Food

Genetically modified (GM) food is food that has been genetically engineered for consumption. The genetic makeup of plants or animals is modified in order to enhance certain traits. Traits most desired by agricultural companies include pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, disease resistance, increased nutrients, improved taste and quality, higher crop yields, and shorter maturation time. Companies and corporations that sell genetically modified food argue that it is better quality food that has the ability to end world hunger. However, many scientists, farmers, and advocates for organic agriculture argue that there are many downsides these companies refuse to share with the public.

Critics argue that genetically modified food creates hazards to both human health and the environment. One negative impact on the environment is that genetically modified crops and plants can harm other organisms within the environment. GM crops can transfer their genes by cross breeding with other organisms. This scenario can result in loss of biodiversity as more crops cross breed and become more uniform. The introduction of foreign genes into food consumed by humans also has the potential to create a negative impact on human health. Not enough research has been conducted on the effects of genetically modified food. As a result, the long term effects on human health and the environment are unknown.

There is also lack of information provided to consumers. Currently, there are no label standards or regulations for genetically modified foods within the United States. As a result, many people are unaware when they are purchasing genetically modified foods or products. The methods used by the USDA to approve GM food are to compare nutritional content between GM and non-GM food and checking databases for known allergens.

Critics also argue that genetically modified food can be an effective way to end world hunger. There is a common misconception that world hunger is caused by food shortage. However, the world actually produces enough food to feed the globe. In reality, world hunger is a result of economics and politics. Hunger is experienced by poorer nations of the world who do not have the resources to either buy or grow food. The policies of genetically modified food corporations only further exacerbate the problem. These corporations use technology that is too expensive for developing nations to purchase. These corporations also utilize patenting laws in order to obtain profit. Again, the poorer nations cannot afford the prices that these companies charge for GM crop seeds.

Further research and testing needs to be taken before genetically modified food can be fully adopted. Corporations need to be more forthright with their testing and make information more easily available to the public. Governments should also create standards and regulations for GM food to ensure that the public is consuming safe food and products. 

 

Poole-Kavana, Hollace and Schwind, Kirsten. “We Need GM Food Like a Hole in Our Kidneys.” 23 Aug. 2006. [http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0621-33.htm]< br />
Whitman, Deborah B. “Genetically Modified Foods: Harmful or Helpful?”  23 Aug. 2006. [http://www.csa.com/discoveryguides/gmfood/overvie w.php]

“What Are Genetically Modified (GM) Foods?” 23 Aug. 2006. [http://www.ornl.gov/sci/techresources/Human_Genom e/elsi/gmfood.shtml]