Genetically Modified Essay

Genetic modification of organisms in a general is a biotechnological process that forces genes to behave according to certain characteristics. Changing characteristics of organisms is based on changing their DNA. It is being used for modifying genes in plants, animals or micro-organisms. One of the places it is often used is with food, in order to improve the nutritious quality, less use of chemicals such as pesticides and adding flavor. Genetically modified food is considere4d one of the modern production improvements and the largest food experiments in the world’s history. Virtually every crop we eat has undergone hundreds of years of genetic modification by farmers and scientist in search of desirable traits. The Benefits of gene technology in terms of food production are enormous. The most common genetically engineered foods contain modifications that make the plants resistant to certain diseases and herbicides, or allow them to produce their own pesticides, thereby eliminating or reducing the need to spray. Genetically modified foods are also being adapted to grown in salty, dry or frosty environments, contain edible vaccines, have a longer shelf life and be more nutritious. Even though there are several benefits to genetically modifying foods, concerns are raised regarding the negative effects caused by the modification. These concerns fall into 3 categories: economics, environmental hazards and human health risks. Environmental damage from genetically modified foods can be caused through various channels, one of the main concerns is the possibility of gene transfer to a non- targeted species. â€Å"By genetically altering crops they can be sprayed throughout the growing season, farmers are now spraying their fields three times a season†. Naturally as the weeds grow more tolerant they pass that trait to the next generation, creating what is commonly referred to as a â€Å"super weed†. Another huge concern is human impact from genetically modified foods. Several dangers have been discovered by humans who consume these foods. People with allergies tend to see an increase in reactions once consuming genetically modified foods. Others form allergies from these foods consumption. As individuals ingest more of these foods their bodily toxicity levels increase, which leads to other potentially serious health problems. Genetically modified foods has negative effect of reproduction systems. There were studies conducted showing animals becoming completely sterile in a matter of weeks, after in gestation of these foods that had to be forced fed to them. The digestive system is where the body is exposed to harmful foods, it grows bigger and reversing the damaging effects is almost impossible. Once all of these harmful things occur within a human’s body that is not designed to handle the outcome will eventually be death. There is a negative impact on biodiversity when the number of organism in the ecosystem is reduced as well as their infractions. The cross areas of genetically identical crops will tip the balance of nature and wildlife, and disrupt surrounding ecosystems. Wild plants up to miles away can be pollinated via wind-blown pollen. Some genetically modified plants may even be toxic to certain insects. Another concern is that genetically modified foods could impact the organic foods industry, this is why environmental agencies closely monitor their use. Although genetically modified foods and crops have huge benefits that may lead to solving world hunger due to the lesser production costs and increased crop yield, the dangers far outweigh them; risks and hazards that are related to it may affect human health, the environment, and society. The advantages of biotechnology prominent now are only short term, consumers should be aware of what they are eating and the health risks they are taking when consuming genetically modified foods. Correct labeling of genetically modified foods should be mandatory in all countries, so that people have their right to decide for themselves whether or not to consume these foods. Strict government controls should be implemented to regulate the planting of these crops. The future well-being of society in the long run should be thought of instead of simply satisfying the needs in the present, otherwise we will have bigger issues on top of the ones we have now.