The Evolution of Genetic Modification
The conventional genetic alteration of the makeup of plants has been occurring for millennia; harvesting the seeds from the best crops and planting them years down the line; breeding and crossbreeding certain genes to make foods grow bigger and give them a sweeter taste. Through this intuitive process, humans have managed to transform the small, wild tomato into a number of different varieties: from big to small, beefsteak to grape, revolutionizing the food industry with every step taken (Journal of Biotechnology). Because of the invention of GM foods, individuals across the globe are given the opportunity to broaden their palate to that of a more diverse level, allowing for a happier and healthier lifestyle. However, with the evolution of technology also comes great controversy. (Journal of Biotechnology)
The techniques of genetic engineering have evolved tremendously. Genetic engineers have the ability to take any gene from any living organism and insert it into practically any other …show more content…
Modern age agriculture is the leading cause of environmental damage, more so than any other human activity. The implementation of genetically engineered crops will significantly decrease that adverse effect. Crops modified to contain the bacterial Bt gene will reduce a famer’s reliance on spray insecticides, as the modified genetic makeup of the crop will allow it to become toxic to numerous pests. With future development, next generation seeds will be designed to allow farmers to use less amounts or water and toxic, chemical fertilizers, all while maintaining reasonable amounts of commercial gain. However, potential problems do arise with the use of GM crops, like the spread of “super weeds” and super pests.” As this is a real problem, there are precautions and measures to be taken that will manage and even prevent this
The conventional genetic alteration of the makeup of plants has been occurring for millennia; harvesting the seeds from the best crops and planting them years down the line; breeding and crossbreeding certain genes to make foods grow bigger and give them a sweeter taste. Through this intuitive process, humans have managed to transform the small, wild tomato into a number of different varieties: from big to small, beefsteak to grape, revolutionizing the food industry with every step taken (Journal of Biotechnology). Because of the invention of GM foods, individuals across the globe are given the opportunity to broaden their palate to that of a more diverse level, allowing for a happier and healthier lifestyle. However, with the evolution of technology also comes great controversy. (Journal of Biotechnology)
The techniques of genetic engineering have evolved tremendously. Genetic engineers have the ability to take any gene from any living organism and insert it into practically any other …show more content…
Modern age agriculture is the leading cause of environmental damage, more so than any other human activity. The implementation of genetically engineered crops will significantly decrease that adverse effect. Crops modified to contain the bacterial Bt gene will reduce a famer’s reliance on spray insecticides, as the modified genetic makeup of the crop will allow it to become toxic to numerous pests. With future development, next generation seeds will be designed to allow farmers to use less amounts or water and toxic, chemical fertilizers, all while maintaining reasonable amounts of commercial gain. However, potential problems do arise with the use of GM crops, like the spread of “super weeds” and super pests.” As this is a real problem, there are precautions and measures to be taken that will manage and even prevent this