GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS: BENEFITS AND DISADVANTAGES
Zachary Nguyen
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been a topic of an intense debate in
recent years. Benefits of GMOs include increase crop yields, improve nutritional content,
and reduce the need for pesticides. They also have the potential to help address food
insecurity in developing countries. However, GMOs have been linked to health issues in
some studies, and there are concerns about their environmental impact and the
monopolization of the seed industry. The long-term effects of GMOs are still not fully
understood, making it a complex and controversial issue.
Genetically modified organisms can greatly benefit humanity through increased
crop yields, as they enable scientists to modify the genes of crops to make them more
resistant to pests, diseases, and harsh environmental conditions, which leads to higher
yields and more abundant food supplies. In fact, as of 2014, crop yields have been
increased by 22%. A great example of this is the development of genetically modified
cotton plants that are resistant to the bollworm, a pest that can cause substantial damage
and reduce crop yields. By utilizing these GMO cotton plants, farmers have experienced a
boost in their yields while decreasing their reliance on pesticides, at the same time. This
not only helps to increase the overall food supply, but also promotes more sustainable
farming practices by reducing the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides.
Genetically modified organisms provide the capability to significantly improve the
nutritional content of crops by allowing scientists to add or modify genes to enhance
essential nutrient levels. A notable example is the development of genetically modified
Golden Rice, which, according to Britannica, contains elevated levels of beta-carotene, a
vitamin A precursor, thereby addressing vitamin A deficiency, a major health concern in
many developing countries, such as the Philippines. Similarly, Anthony J. Kinney, member
of the American Society of Plant Biologists found that genetically modified soybeans have
been engineered to contain increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for
heart health. These advancements in GMO technology offer the potential to not only
combat malnutrition but also improve overall health by providing access to more nutrient-
dense food sources.
GMOs offer another advantage in their ability to reduce pesticide and herbicide
usage through modifying crop genes to create resistance against pests and weeds. This
enables farmers to employ fewer chemicals to protect their crops, which allows them to
decrease the environmental impact of agriculture and allows them to production costs. A
notable example is the development of genetically modified corn plants that exhibit
resistance to the European corn borer, a pest known to greatly reduce crop yields, as cited
from the University of Kentucky. By cultivating these GMO corn plants, farmers have
minimized their pesticide applications, leading to increased yields and environmental
sustainability. This not only promotes more efficient farming practices but also contributes
to healthier ecosystems by reducing chemical pollution and fostering biodiversity.
Furthermore, GMOs have great potential to enhance food security in developing
countries, as they can increase crop yields, improve nutritional content, and ensure
sufficient food availability. This is particularly crucial in regions where food security is a
constant struggle. By using GMO technology to develop crops that are more resistant to
pests, diseases, and harsh environmental conditions, farmers in developing countries can
boost their productivity and yields, which contributes to a more stable and reliable food
supply. Additionally, GMOs can be used to enhance the nutritional content of crops, which
can solve malnutrition issues and promote better overall health outcomes in communities
where access to diverse and nutrient-rich food sources are limited.
Moreover, GMOs can contribute positively to the environment by reducing the
reliance on pesticides and herbicides, which decreases the environmental impact of
agriculture. This reduction in chemical usage can lead to a significant decrease in the
amount of chemicals released into the environment, which in turn can benefit wildlife and
ecosystems. For example, genetically modified crops that are resistant to pests and
diseases can minimize the need for chemical pesticides, preserving biodiversity and
maintaining ecological balance, according to Brooke Borel, renowned for her work in
science journalism. Additionally, herbicide-tolerant GMO crops can cause the adoption of
no-till farming practices, which can help to reduce soil erosion, increase soil carbon
sequestration, and promote healthier soil ecosystems.
GMOs can also extend the shelf life and freshness of produce, offering a
considerable advantage to the agricultural industry and consumers alike. By manipulating
genes responsible for ripening and decay, scientists can develop crops that maintain their
quality and nutritional value for longer periods of time. This innovation can greatly reduce
food waste and spoilage, ensuring that a more produce reaches consumers in prime
condition. For instance, genetically modified tomatoes have been engineered to ripen more
slowly, preserving their texture, flavor, and nutritional content during transportation and
storage. This results in fresher, more appealing produce available in markets, ultimately
benefiting both consumers and producers. Furthermore, the extended shelf life of GMO
crops can facilitate long-distance trade, providing access to a wider variety of fresh
produce for consumers and opening new markets for farmers.
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