Sample Essay On Genetically Modified Food

Genetically modified foods are foods that are derived from genetically modified organisms using the latest molecular biological techniques. They were first introduced in the markets in 1996. There has been a number of heated debates and extreme controversy over genetically modified foods. The raging debates involves, the effects of GM foods on human beings and the environment, the role of government monitors, its role in solving food shortage and whether the foods should be labeled. Examples of genetically modified foods are corn, fruits and vegetables, and soy bean seeds
Genetically modified foods have its pros and cons just like any other controversial topic. The world population has topped over 6 billion people and there is a prediction that it is to double in the coming years. In order to ensure there is adequate food supply for the booming population, there is need for genetically modified foods since naturally produced foods will not be sufficient for the growing population. Genetically modified foods are pest resistant, herbicide resistant, and disease resistant and this increases food production. Moreover, the technology has the potential to yield more crops which helps solve food shortages around the globe. In addition, GM foods have a nutritional value since they are genetically created to meet a balanced diet thus solving malnutrition in third world countries. The crops are altered and changed to produce more proteins, carbohydrates and large amounts of essential vitamins and minerals which prove them to be the best foods for a healthy diet for users compared to traditionally cultivated foods. Genetically engineered foods grow faster. These foods are altered to grow faster and therefore are cultivated and harvested in a short period of time thus an increase in food production.
Genetically modified foods have its disadvantages just like it has advantages. Environmental activists, scientists, religious organizations have raised concerns about GM foods. GM foods have economic concerns, human health risks and environmental hazards. Moreover, these foods pose serious health issues on human beings and can cause diseases that are immune to antibiotics. The intake of GM foods might result to unexpected allergic reactions, out crossing and gene transfer. Additionally, genetically modified foods are said to have unknown effects on human health. These foods are made with foreign genes and when they are introduced to the body, they can cause negative impacts on human health. The GM foods technology is a very expensive and lengthy process and thus can cause serious economic concerns to a country. Also, most GM foods are not labeled and so customers are not fully aware of what they are consuming so they consume them unknowingly and this might adversely affect their health.
Genetically modified foods are regularly used around the world. The latent end of malnutrition and poverty cannot be realized if strict laws are not monopolized over genetically engineered foods. Therefore, there is need for further research on this subject so as to reduce the risks as genetically modified foods are used regularly around the world. If this process has to proceed, caution must be taken by making strict laws to govern the process so as to avoid causing unintentional harm to the environment and human health.
In conclusion, just like any other controversial subject, genetically modified foods have it advantages and disadvantages. While it poses some risks on the human health, they still help in solving the food shortage problem around the world. Moreover, whilst it is expensive and might affect a country’s economy since all countries will not be able to afford the technology, it increases food production by reducing pesticides, herbicides and diseases on the farms since crops that are genetically modified are resistant to diseases, pests, and herbs. In essence, GM foods bring advantages and a number of concerns about its possible impacts on the human health and the environment that are yet to be properly evidenced.