Pros and Cons of Genetically Modified Foods

For yesteryear two decades scientists have attempted genetically modified crops and animals. To be able to genetically modify a plant or animal for example soybeans, DNA from the soybean is crossed, or sliced, using the DNA of another thing, such as a pesticide or any other type of plant that could produce more nutrients. This is whats called recombinant DNA, or rDNA, technology.

Arguments exist on sides for and from the growing trend by most of the world's nations why they should or shouldn't alter the genetic make-up of plants and animals.

Advocates for genetic modification reason that DNA-enhanced livestock and crops can better sustain the burgeoning world population. They cite examples for example:

oHybrid seeds fortified with increased nutrients, for example increased iron

oPlants that produce their very own pesticides

oLeaner livestock modified with healthier traits, for example no trans fats

oPlants and animals lacking allergens

Proponents also think that such advances in technology will enable people residing in poorer parts of the world to higher feed their populations.

Opponents to genetically modified produce and animals think that such "frankenfoods" might have devastating effects about the natural world order. They're concerned with issues for example:

oCrops cross-pollinating with other plants, creating "superweeds"

oUnclear labels thereby lowering the public's awareness that their food continues to be modified

oUnknown health risks related to genetic modification

oMonopoly from the food supply by those producing modified crops and livestock

Currently many countries already produce genetically modified food such as the United States, China, India, Brazil, Argentina, Indonesia, Mexico and Nigeria. The U.S. may be the biggest producer with crops for example corn, soybeans, canola, and cotton.

Due towards the concerns from both advocates and opponents, each side of the debate came together in the last couple of years in forums and summits around the globe to discuss the problem. Some have required tighter restrictions and labeling of products, others think that more testing ought to be done. And still other people have begun storing and selling non hybrid seeds so that they can preserve natural species in the event of an unforeseen event that could damage the earth's food supply.

No matter which argument an individual chooses remaining informed about genetically modified meals are one of the secrets of understanding the debate and making healthy eating choices.

Some have required tighter restrictions and labeling of products, others think that more testing ought to be done. And still other people have begun storing and selling their very own non hybrid seeds [arkinstitute.com] so that they can preserve natural species in the event of an unforeseen event that could damage the earth's food supply.