GMOs: Good or Bad? You Decide
Genetically Modified Organisms, or
GMOs, are a growing part of our food industry that has caused much controversy.
According to the World Health Organization, genetically modified organisms are
plants, animals, or organisms that have had their genetic material altered in a
way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination. The
main reason for GMO use in agriculture is for increased yields in production
for our growing population. An example of GMO use includes corn injected with
DNA from soil bacteria that is immune to specific pesticides that in turn makes
the corn immune to these pesticides that otherwise destroy the crop. This type
of corn is called RoundUp Ready Corn and is engineered by Monsanto.
One of the main reasons for
speculation is the lack of research done on this way of production. Because
GMOs have only been on the market for around 30 years the abundance of research
that would show the negative effects of GMOs on the human body is low. Many
wonder if GMOs will have similar effects as DTE and be discovered as extremely
harmful. Currently, the only concerns by the World Health Organization are the
possible allergies to genetically modified products, if the antibiotic
resistant genes in some GMOs will transfer to the human body, and the migration
of genes from GMO crops to conventional crops. As of now, WHO has not found any
allergic effects relative to GM foods. However, they do encourage producers to
not use antibiotic resistant genes due to the lack of current knowledge on the effects.
Nevertheless, all GM foods on the market today have all passed safety tests.
There is much contemplation on
whether or not GMOs will be the future for the food industry and for feeding
our growing population. Before you make your opinions on the matter please be
sure to do your research on the advantages and the drawbacks. Then make your
own conclusion on whether or not GMOs are the answer for your lifestyle.
Written by Morgan Froebe, Intern for the Public Trust Law.
