Genetically
Modified Organisms
Science, Technology and Society
Define genetically modified
organisms;
Enumerate examples of commercially
available genetically modified crops LESSON
or products made from genetically
modified materials; OBJECTIVES
Discuss the economic and health
impact of GMOs or genetically
modified organisms and
Design an output that shows the
future of GMOs in the society.
GMO
A living organism particularly animal, plant,
or microbe whose DNA has been
transformed or changed through genetic
engineering techniques.
Selective breeding and cross breeding
methods have been used over generations
to create organisms with desired traits.
Genetic Engineering
The development of GMOs During the mid 1990s the 90% of the available
was perceived to help in the first genetically engineered GMOs in the market are
advancement of technology plants for human corn, sugar beets and
for the benefit of humans in consumption were soybeans.
different industries. introduced.
The term genetic engineering
was coined by Jack Williamson
in 1951.
GMOs in Food and Agricultural Industries
1. Pest resistance 2. Virus resistance 3. Herbicide tolerance
4. Fortification 5. Cosmetic preservation
6. Increase growth rate
GMOs in Non-Food Crops and Microorganisms
1. Flower production 2. Paper production 3. Pharmaceutical
productions
5. Enzyme and drug
4. Bioremediation
production 6. GMOs in the
medical field
GMOs and Health
According to FDA, consumption of GMO food is safe
and does not cause harm to our health similar with
non-GMO food. With the advent of advanced
biotechnology methodologies, GMO with important
medicinal compounds will be manufactured that can
serve as cure to some damaging or even fatal diseases.
GMO Animals in the Market
Most of GMO animals that are produced are
being utilized for experiments or laboratory
research.
GMOs and Pesticide Use
Some of the GMO plants available consists of PIPs
reducing the need for and use of many spray pesticides.
Guided by the Insect Resistance Management Program,
the Environmental Protection Agency collaborates with
scientist to help establish GMOs that will resist insects
effectively and for a longer period of time.
PRESERVE THE ENVIRONMENT
-HIGHER EFFICIENCY IN
FARMING
-INCREASE IN HARVEST
-CONTROL IN FERTILITY
-INCREASE IN FOOD PROCESSING REDUCE FOOD WASTE
-IMPROVEMENT IN DESIRABLE
CHARACTERISTIC
-NUTRITIONAL AND
PHARMACEUTICAL Benefits of GMOs
ENHANCEMENT
-REDUCE THE USE OF FERTILIZER
LOWER FOOD COST
AND PESTICIDES
SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION
POTENTIAL RISKS OF GMOS
There are inadequate studies on the effects of
GMOs to humans and environment.
Promotes mutation in organisms.
Negative impact on Environment
Human consumption might have the following effects:
- More allergic reactions
- Gene mutation
- Antibiotic resistance
- Nutritional value changes
Biosafety on GMOs
International organizations developed principles
and treaties that somehow ensure biosafety on
GMOs. Some of these initiatives are as follows:
• The Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex)
• Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
• International Trade Agreement on labeling
of GM food and food products
