Abstract
There is a growing trend of genetically modified foods, which has seen their entry in the market. Consumers are faced with the task of deciding whether to buy these foods or not. Taking into account their effects, some informed consumers use these foods while others decide to do away with them. On the other hand, uninformed consumers end up consuming these foods without knowledge on their effects. There are two opposing views regarding genetically modified food. Those in favor argue that they should be allowed in the market and the decisions to consume or not to be left with consumers. They believe the government should play a role in informing people about the effects and the benefits of this food. Those in opposition to genetically modified food believe that the food should not be allowed in the market. This argument is based on the negative effects of the genetically modified food. They do not consider the positive side or the benefits. In my opinion, I agree with the first view that is in support for the presence of genetically modified food in the market. The government should make sure that the producers of this food meet the required standards and carry out tests before sales.
Introduction
Genetically modified food is food produced from organisms whose genes have been modified with the use of genetic engineering. The genetic material of these organisms is altered in a way that the biological process does not take place naturally. This is done in plants, animals and other microorganisms that human beings use as food. Agricultural economists have been tasked to find out the relevance of the two opposing views regarding genetically modified food. However, personal perception and judgments take a central role in this. The question should, therefore, be whether the government and relevant authorities are doing enough to enhance consumer autonomy among its uninformed citizens (Colson, 2013).
Consumer autonomy and genetically modified food
Consumer autonomy is the ability of consumers to make decisions whether to use genetically modified food or not because they are clearly informed of the benefits and effects of this food. Several arguments have been fronted against the consumption of genetically modified food pointing out on the risks associated with consumption of this food. Some of these arguments advocate for the total elimination of this food in the market. They claim that because of some health effects associated with this food it is not favorable for human consumption. What the advocates of this notion forget to mention is the positive attributes associated with both consumption of this food and its production (Phillips, 2013).
Proponents of a total ban on genetically modified food should remember that before this food is released to the market, it has to be tested whether it is fit for human consumption. Their claim for health risks includes faster growth that might expose people to diseases such as obesity. Gaining much weight due to consumption of genetically modified food can be controlled through consumption of reduced amounts and diet. People can also lose weight through regular exercising that helps in burning excess fats in the body. Therefore, as much as their ground for argument is valid there are corrective measures that can be taken to avoid the risks associated with consumption of genetically modified food. The benefits that come with the presence of genetically modified food outweigh the risks associated with their consumption. However, there is a need for policy enforcement to put in place regulations so that uninformed consumers are made aware of the risks and benefits associated with this food. This way they can make autonomous purchasing decisions without being compelled to consume the food unaware (Cabuk, 2014).
Some of the benefits that come with the introduction of genetically modified food include the technology itself with which they are produced. They promote technological inventions and innovations within which the society grows. An enhanced market for this food creates employment the producers, suppliers and the society. This food has helped save lives in various parts of the world through food aid to third world countries in need of food support. There are many countries surviving and sustaining their populations through genetically modified food.
The government should make efforts to promote the provision of tested genetically modified food in the market together with the natural food. This will allow those consumers not willing to have genetically modified food to opt for the natural food. This way it will gain appeal among many people with a negative attitude towards it. Studies have indicated a more appeal for this food among the American people as compared to those of the United Kingdom. However, efforts to label this food in America have met opposition while in the United Kingdom labeling seems to gain the support of many.
Conclusion
In my opinion, genetically modified food should be allowed in the market because its benefits outweigh the risks. The benefits start from the technological advancements that come with it, employment opportunities and enhanced nutritional contents. This food is used to support the fast growing world population and reducing chances of global food crisis. Arguments in opposition to genetically modified food are narrow and point out to risks that can be controlled by individuals. However, there is a need for government and relevant authorities to put in place measures to that will ensure only scientifically tested food reaches the consumers. Consumer awareness about risks and benefits is necessary. They should also ensure both natural food and genetically modified food is available in the market but with clear differentiation to allow autonomous purchasing decisions.
References
Çabuk, S., & Tanrikulu, C. (2014). The Role of Perceived Risk, Uncertainty Avoidance, and Innovativeness in Willingness-To-Buy Genetically Modified Foods. Cag University Journal of Social Sciences, 11(1).
Colson, G., & Rousu, M. C. (2013). What do consumer surveys and experiments reveal and conceal about consumer preferences for genetically modified foods?. GM crops & food, 4(3), 158-165
Deal, W. F., & Baird, S. L. (2003). Genetically Modified Foods: A Growing Need: Plant Biotechnology Can Help to Overcome the World's Concern for Feeding Its Ever-Growing Population.(Resources in Technology). The Technology Teacher, 62(7), 18.
Phillips, D. M., & Hallman, W. K. (2013). Consumer risk perceptions and marketing strategy: The case of genetically modified food. Psychology & Marketing, 30(9), 739-748.
Siipi, H., & Uusitalo, S. (2011). Consumer autonomy and availability of genetically modified food. Journal of agricultural and environmental ethics, 24(2), 147-163.
