Genetically Modified Foods Pros and Cons - Research Paper Example

Genetically modified foods analysis Genetically modified foods, often called biotech foods are foods derivative from genetically modified organisms (GMO). Genetically modified organisms have specific alterations introduced into their DNA using genetic engineering technology. These technologies are more precise than mutation breeding (mutagenesis) where organisms get exposed to chemicals or radiation to create a random but stable change. Other technology by which food gets modified, include selective breeding; animal and plant breeding, and soma - clonal variation.

Since genetically modified food got introduced into the market, there has been a never-ending controversy as to if it is safe for human consumption (Zilberman 13). A proposed benefit of GMO foods is that they may produce higher crop yields. This could help in feeding more people in the developing countries. They remain cited as more economical, in spite of the initial higher price of the seeds. The logic stands that they reduce the application of pesticides and herbicides besides reducing the manpower required to successfully growing them, which should translate into better financial gains.

Genetically modified foods have improved food quality as another benefit. A tomato, for example, may be engineered to have a long shelf life in the market being still fresh (Weasel 91). Yet another advantage that stays believed to happen from GMO technology is that crops may be engineered to resist weather extremes and fluctuations. This implies that they can provide adequate yields and quality despite poor weather conditions. Another benefit is that GMO foods may be engineered to possess a high content of specific nutrients that lack in diets of specific local population crowd.

The vitamin A. rich, GMO “golden rice” exist as an example of a GMO food that got engineered to have high nutrient levels (Weasel 95). Similar to the advantages of GMO foods, there also exist disadvantages of that come along with the technology. One worrisome issue in GMO foods is the aptitude of food to cause an allergy in the human body. Some of the genes employed in GMO technology might be from food that triggers allergies in some individuals. Inserting that gene into a different organism could cause the hosting organism to take that allergen as a characteristic.

Alternately, a new allergen may be produced when genes mixes across different species (Weasel 98). Another potential downside to GMO technology is that other relevant organisms in the ecosystem may be harmed, which could lead to a lower biodiversity level. By removing one pest harming the crop, may perhaps removing a food source of another animal. Also, GMO could prove toxic to organisms in the environment, resulting to reduced numbers or even extinction of the organism. Given that some GMO foods get modified by the use of viruses and bacteria, there stands a fear that the emergence of new diseases may be witnessed in the unknown future.

The threat to the human being health is a worrisome feature of GMO technology and one that received a lot of debate since its introduction (Weasel 101). Extensive research needs to be done on the foods before they get introduced for human consumption. Despite all of GMO technology risks, it remains the most promising option on bracing the worsening global food security due to escalating population and resources depletion (Zilberman 194). Works CitedWeasel, Lisa H. Food Fray: Inside the Controversy Over Genetically Modified Food.

New York: American Management Association, 2009.Zilberman, David. Market Development for Genetically Modified Foods. New York: CABI, 2002.