The production of genetically modified foods is still at a very preliminary stage. However, with systematic planning using specific techniques and testing methods along with proper breeding, many food products that could satisfy majority of the needs of the consumers worldwide is possible in the near future. Everyday new discoveries are made using advanced techniques which adds to the every growing list of benefits the genetically modified foods can offer. Some of the benefits which can be seen in the near future are as follows:
- The production of the foods can be increased to a large extent along with reducing the cost involved in producing a particular food product. The exposure to toxic pesticide chemicals can also be avoided to a large extent.
- The food product could be made to synthesis necessary nutrients that are required to maintain a general well being.
- Plants can be made to produce anti-oxidants which are capable of fighting against cancer by nullifying the effect of harmful components in the body.
- Plant products that produce vaccines can also developed which can be consumed orally.
- The taste as well as the life of the food product can be improved by modifying specific genes.
- The processing time, the effort and resources required to make the food can also be reduced and altered.
- In the near future, plants that are drought resistant and which are capable of surviving harsh environmental conditions can also be developed by altering specific genes (Engel and Miller 2002, 329; Leighton 1999, 581; The Future of Genetically Modified (GM) Foods; WHO: 20 questions on genetically modified foods).
Although it would take many years to achieve all the above, there is tremendous opportunity for technology like this to flourish which would in turn improve the quality of life worldwide.
Bibliography
- Engel, K-H, and Th Frenzel and A. Miller. “Current and future benefits from the use of GM technology in food production.” Toxicology Letters 127 (2002): 329–336.
- Leighton, Jones. “Genetically modified foods.” British Medical Journal 318, no. 7183 (1999): 581–584.
The Future of Genetically Modified (GM) Foods
http://www.gm.org/gm-foods/the-future-of-genetically-modified-gm-foods
WHO: 20 questions on genetically modified foods.
http://www.who.int/foodsafety/publications/biotech/20questions/en/
