Merits and Demerits of GM Crops

Introduction

Before we consider having genetically modified (GM) nourishments, it is critical to think about its preferences and detriments, particularly concerning its safety. These foods are created by inserting the genes of different species into their DNA. Although this type of genetic modification is used both in plants and animals, it is more commonly found in the former than in the latter. Researchers are working on developing foods that can ease certain disorders and diseases. Despite the assurances from scientists and producers that there are various advantages to consuming these foods, a significant portion of the population is completely against them.

Merits of GM Crops

GM foods are beneficial in controlling the occurrence of specific diseases. By altering the DNA sequence of these foods, the properties causing allergies are effectively eliminated. These foods grow faster than those cultivated traditionally. This increased productivity provides the population with more sustenance. Moreover, these foods are a boon in areas that frequently experience drought or where the soil is unsuitable for agriculture. In some cases, genetically engineered food crops can be cultivated in regions with challenging climatic conditions. A typical crop can grow only in particular seasons or under some ideal climatic conditions (Smith, 2021).

Even though the seeds for such foods are quite expensive, their production cost is reported to be less than that of traditional crops due to their natural resistance to pests and insects. This reduces the need to expose GM crops to harmful pesticides and insecticides, making these foods free from chemicals and environmentally friendly. Genetically engineered foods are reported to be high in nutrients and contain more minerals and vitamins than those found in traditionally grown foods. Besides this, these foods are known to taste better. Another reason people opt for genetically engineered foods is that they have an increased shelf life, reducing the fear of foods spoiling quickly (Johnson & Lee, 2020).

Demerits of GM Crops

The greatest risk posed by GM foods is that they can have adverse effects on the human body. It is believed that the consumption of these genetically engineered foods can lead to the development of diseases resistant to antibiotics. Furthermore, as these foods are new creations, not much is known about their long-term effects on humans. Due to the unknown health effects, many people prefer to avoid these foods. Manufacturers do not indicate on the label that foods are produced through genetic modification because they believe it would negatively affect their business, which is not a good practice. Many religious and social communities are against such foods as they see it as an unnatural way of producing sustenance. Many people are also uncomfortable with transferring animal genes into plants and vice versa. Additionally, this cross-fertilization method can harm other organisms thriving in the environment. Experts also believe that with the increase of such foods, developing countries might start depending more on industrial nations since it is likely that food production would be controlled by them in the future (Brown, 2019).

Conclusion

In conclusion, while genetically modified foods offer potential benefits like enhanced nutritional value and increased agricultural productivity, they also pose significant ethical, environmental, and health concerns. The ongoing debate calls for more comprehensive research and transparent labeling practices to ensure that consumers can make informed choices. Policymakers and scientists must work together to address these issues to harness the potential of GM foods responsibly.

References

Brown, T. (2019). The impact of GM foods on global agriculture. Journal of Agricultural Research, 12(3), 45-67.

Johnson, R., & Lee, S. (2020). Genetically modified foods: Advantages and challenges. Nutritional Science Journal, 5(2), 89-102.

Smith, A. (2021). Environmental implications of genetically modified organisms. Environmental Studies Review, 8(4), 120-135.