The Potencial Benefits and Problems of GM Food - 981 Words

The Potential Benefits and Problems of Genetically Modified Food Every time we go to the supermarket or any grocery store, we do not know whether the vegetables, fruits or even meats being sold are genetically modified. To make this situation worse, most consumers do not pay much attention to what they are eating when they are actually devouring genetically engineered food. Despite this ignorance, more and more people, including researchers, are becoming aware of the impact of genetically modified food, and the debate over the issue of whether genetic engineering should be stopped from modifying organisms never ceases. This essay will discuss what genetically modified (GM) food is, and the benefits and problems of genetically modified†¦show more content†¦Aside from human health, genetically modified organisms have serious negative impacts on the environment. One of those is the effect on pollinators. Most of the earth s plants depend on insects for pollination and it is crucial that agricultural activities do not disrupt this natural eco system (Padgette, 1996). However, genetically modified crops do not fulfill this fundamental requirement. Even though genetically modified crops are more resistant to pests and viruses and can survive even under the harshest conditions, modified genes from genetically engineered crops can be transferred into other wild species, causing various unwanted outcomes (Smith, 2005). Transgenic genes from genetically modified crops can be transferred in various ways to different species, including plants, insects, bacteria and viruses. Genetically modified foods have the potential to solve many of the world s hunger and malnutrition problems, and to help protect and preserve the environment by increasing yield and reducing reliance upon chemical pesticides and herbicides. Yet there are many challenges ahead for governments, especially in the areas of safety testing, regulation, international policy and food labeling. Many people