Genetically Modified Organisms: Helpful Or Harmful?

GMO, or Genetically Modified Organisms, are organisms in which the genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating or natural combination. It is widly believed among the public that Genetically Modified foods will result in people walking around like zombies with large tumors. They don’t have a clear understanding of GMOs. Through advertising on T.V., talk on social media, and even by listening to the news people have been led to believe that GMO foods are dangerous. People believe that GMOs cause food allergies, there has yet to be a case of food allergies related to GMOs. In fact GMOs are thoroughly tested for their allergic potiential. Most people believe that the crops uses to many pesticides which …show more content…
The number one benefit is helping fight worldwide hunger. They also have a longer shelf like, which allows the food to be delivered to countries without access to nutritional foods before the food becomes inedible. They also have better nutritional value in terms of mineral and vitamin content. Genes can be inserted into cattle to increase the amount of milk the cattle produces. Plants can be genetically modified to produce vaccines and other medicines. For example potatoes can be used to create a vaccine to help with Vitamin A defiency and fight E.coli, the bacteria that causes diarrhea as well as death, which is a big problem in developing countries. Research is still in the early stages on this, it’s called pharming. Another great benefit of GMOs is farmers can grow more food with less land and can even grow crops in places like Africa where the climate is so dry. The leading cause of food insecurity in Africa is the climate. Engineered crops can survive through harsh climates, therefore increasing the amount of food grown in Africa. They are more resistant to disease, and bugs, therefore decreasing the chance of crop failure. Crop failure would cost more money and slower food production. It also benefits the farmers especially those in developing …show more content…
The food must meet the same requirements as traditionaly bred plants. Each genetically modified product goes through years of scientific trials and testing to ensure safety before it ever reaches the market. If one thing is wrong then it fails the requirements. It is illegal to sell, ship, or process unsafe food. Yet people still believe Monsanto is trying to posion them. Gentically Modified Organisms could benefit so many millions. Many people don’t have an understanding of GMO likewise most opinions are based on misinformation and propaganda. The public needs to make informed opinions instead of falling for the propaganda the activist promote. GMO foods can help so many people in so many ways if the public had a better understanding of the process, the benefits, and the amount of testing each product goes