Question

genetically modified foods or GMOs raise concerns about long term health and environmental consequences. Even though scientists note that these foods are generally safe and potentially beneficial, many consumers are not comfortable with consuming them. what is your position on GMOs? what are the potential risks and benefits associated with GMOs ? Are they a necessary part of our food supply?

Answer 1

GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS

INTRODUCTION:

Genitically modified foods or organisms means those food items which the organisms DNA has been altered by which they cannot produce it by natural mating or recombination. With the help of genetic engineering we can change the genetic materials of plants, animals or even the microorganisms.

GMOs have its own risks and benefits. Eventhough in my concern it is helpful to us. Because there is a reduce in the use of poisonous pesticides. The farmers are able to produce more food items after the coming of genetic engineering. And also with this increasing population rate there is a need of more foods.GMOs can be a substitute for this world's hunger needs.

Some of the GMO foods are corn, potatoe,Alfalfa, soybeans etc.

BENEFITS:

• More nutritious food
• Tastier food
• Disease- and drought-resistant plants that require fewer environmental resources (such as water and fertilizer)
• Less use of pesticides
• Increased supply of food with reduced cost and longer shelf life
• Faster growing plants and animals
• Food with more desirable traits, such as potatoes that produce less of a cancer-causing substance when fried
• Medicinal foods that could be used as vaccines or other medicines

Proponents of GM food contend that genetic engineering can help us find sustainable ways to feed people. Specifically, in countries that lack access to nutrient-rich foods. The heartiness of some GM crops makes it so they can grow in marginal environments. The longer shelf life of some GM foods allows them to be shipped to remote areas.

POSSIBLE RISKS:

• Creating foods that can cause an allergic reaction or that are toxic
• Unexpected or harmful genetic changes
• Genes moving from one GM plant or animal to another plant or animal that is not genetically engineered
• Antibiotic resistance
• Immunosuppression
• cancer

WHETHER GMOs ARE NECESSARY:

There is no easy answer to this . Because if there is a possibility of increased production of food by cultivation in the farmers fields, the use of GMOs can be reduced. But I dont think it is easy in this growing population and busy world. Also climate change will make it increasingly difficult to feed the world. Biotech crops will have an essential role in ensuring that there’s enough to eat.So the focus on genetic engineering is necessary I think and also we should have a look on adverse effects.