Genetically modified foods are alteration of the chemical makeup of plant and animal genes. Advancements made in biotechnology have allowed results to be produced quickly by breeding organisms together. This has assisted with increasing agricultural production, improving nutrition, and helping foods to taste better. On the other hand, many have become concerned in recent years over the potential adverse health effects associated with genetically modified foods and the environmental damage it could be causing. Here is a pros and cons list to help you make up your own mind.
Pros of Genetically Modified Foods
Reduction of Pests and Disease – Genetic modification has led to an increased resistance of pests and diseases in food and aids in reducing losses and dependence with pesticides.
Increased Stress Tolerance – Environments with more stress due to drought, low temperatures, salty soil, and more can help to increase the foods stress level.
Faster Growth – Food can be cultivated and harvested sooner helping to increase food supply.
Increase Nutrition – Certain vitamins and minerals can help to increase nutrition in certain areas of the world, improving diet options and more for consumers.
Herbicide Resistance – Helps to make it easier to control weeds for farmers.
Increasing Taste – Foods commonly associated with less taste can be improved helping to encourage consumers to eat better.
More Cost Efficient – In the end, the most cost efficient to produce, the less costlier it is for the consumer to purchase.
Cons of Genetically Modified Foods
Side Effects – There is still little knowledge made available as to the potential side effects that can be caused by the mixture of chemical compounds in GMO’s.
Decreased Species Diversity – GMOs can contribute to a reduction of diversity of wild life and affect surrounding areas and vulnerable species.
Ecological Damage – Gene resistance may spread to other plants causing new modifications to occur.
Over Use of Herbicides – Excess use of herbicides can be carried by rainfall to local waterways leading to contamination to wild animals, plants, and human drinking water.
Negatively Impact 3rd World Countries – Patent and intellectual property laws can lead to greater monopolization of technology by private companies not allowing the foods and access to outside impoverish nations.
Since the 1970’s, research and developing technologies regarding GMOs have been on the rise. In the 1990’s, the tomatoe became the first GM crop approved for commercialization. Almost 30 countries are currently cultivating some form of genetically modified crops. The below infographic provides a brief historic timeline.
