preview

It Was Only The Beginning Of The Late 20Th Century, When

Decent Essays

It was only the beginning of the late 20th century, when research and development on genetic modification and genetic engineering began. However, over the past couple of decades, genetic modification has grown to become an important controversial issue in our society. Its consequences can be devastating, but if used correctly, could help shape the world into a different place. However, even at this moment, people still question its integrity and proper use. Along with genetic engineering, the choice to regulate mandatory laws for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is disputed. The question concerns whether the government should require labels on all genetically modified foods or let the food companies decide. Our choices on the matter …show more content…

With modification, it could be possible to adjust their tolerance, optimizing food production. (Key) Not only can these plants adopt resistance, but they can also adopt nutritional value. This capability has been set in motion by the “Golden Rice” campaign. The goal of this effort was to create modified rice that contained a special protein that synthesized Vitamin A so that underdeveloped and malnourished individuals could be healthy. (Charles) It’s always appealing to look at the revolutionary benefits of new technology, but as always there are some hidden dangers scientists need to realize before exuberant utilization.
Of course, there are problems with genetic modification and the long-term effects of tampering with an organism’s genome. Suzie Key, Julian Ma, and Pascal Drake, researchers at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), have published GMO research paper reviewing the impacts genetically modified organisms may have on the environment and our health. They bring up three main concerns in their report: genetically modified (GM) plants will cross-pollinate with ordinary plants, GM plants could become invasive, and conditions for nurturing GM plants may be at the expense of wild populations. Along with the environment, human health could be in danger. When modifying genes in food, specific protein function is lost, possibly leading to adverse health effects. (Key) These concerns, if not accounted for, could be detrimental to both our health

Get Access