Question

1. Pick the one issue in the controversy on genetically engineered foods that, in your evaluation, is the most concerning one. Please explain.

2. Briefly analyze the pro and con arguments concerning this issue.

3. Make an evaluation on how to resolve the controversy. Prioritize the arguments at hand and explain why a particular argument should have priority over the other ones.

Answer 1

Genetically modified food means that the original DNA structure of plants has been altered or tempered with. These foods are made by inserting genes of other species into their DNA. This kind of genetic modification is used both in plants and animals.Because genetically modified foods have been one of the most controversial topics that have made news in the last years.

Experts are working on developing foods that have the ability to alleviate certain disorders and diseases.GM foods are useful in controlling the occurrence of certain diseases. By modifying the DNA system of these foods, the properties causing allergies are eliminated successfully. These foods grow faster than the foods that are grown traditionally.

At times, genetically engineered food crops can be grown at places with unfavourable climatic conditions too. A normal crop can grow only in specific season or under some favourable climatic conditions. Genetically engineered foods are reported to be high in nutrients and contain more minerals and vitamins than those found in traditionally grown foods. Other than this, these foods are known to taste better. Another reason for people opting for genetically engineered foods is that they have an increased shelf life and hence there is less fear of foods getting spoiled quickly.

The biggest threat caused by GM foods is that they can have harmful effects on the human body. It is believed that consumption of these genetically engineered foods can cause the development of diseases which are immune to antibiotics. These foods are new inventions, not much is known about their long term effects on human beings. As the health effects are unknown, many people prefer to stay away from these foods. Many people are also not comfortable with the idea of transferring animal genes into plants and vice versa.