Genetically Modified Organisms Are More Prevalent Now Than...

In a broad sense, genetic modification has been around far as long as agriculture has (about 12,000 years). Throughout history, humans have been crossbreeding similar varieties of plants to create more durable, disease-resistant, and overall satisfactory crops. In more recent history, we have come to understand why crossbreeding was such a successful technique to create a more desirable harvest. From Gregor Mendel discovering heredity in the 1850s, to Watson and Crick unlocking the genetic code in 1954, our scientific understanding of genetics has immensely improved. With modern technology and agricultural practices, GMOs are more prevalent now than ever before. While we do still utilize crossbreeding, today many of our genetically modified organisms are generated and tested for desirable traits in laboratory settings. In these laboratories, scientists are capable of adding or removing individual genes in the DNA to enhance or remove certain traits in the plants. These modific ation practices have made produce bigger, more durable, more pest resistant, and more nutritious than ever before. However, the increased prevalence of GMOs in our produce has also incited substantial fear from consumers. GMOs are scientifically proven to be safe, yet many consumers still prefer to opt for more expensive organic produce even though it is no more nutritious. On top of that, there is now an increased push to require all produce and food products containing any geneticallyShow MoreRelatedGenetically Modified Organisms And Its Effects1387 Words   |  6 PagesGenetically Modified Rice Rice is a major staple for over half of the world, mostly Asia. As a major portion of the diet to billions of people, rice has proven to be semi-adequate sustenance for major populations. Rice has proven to be effective in sustaining life albeit malnourished; hence, rice has been at the forefront of modern genetic modification to improve the lives of many. Much of the research goes into production research to attain higher yields of rice for an ever growing population andRead MoreBenefits Of Genetically Modified Food Essay1734 Words   |  7 Pagesthe form of genetically modified crops. I realize the severity of the situation which plagues my people, but I cannot leave the extended welfare of my country to chance. My decision to refuse aid in the form of genetically modified food stems from the unknown health effects, probable environmental impact and possible trade disruption associated with GMOs. The fact of the matter is, we just don’t know the long-term health effects caused by consuming genetically modified organisms. GMOs wereRead MoreThe Problem Of Genetically Modified Organisms1204 Words   |  5 Pages Genetically Modified Organisms, also called genetically engineered or transgenic food, may provide a solution to help feed a growing world population, yet the debate surrounding GMOs is a mess. 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In the process of using genetically modified foods, lots of people are doubting the safety of genetically modified foodsRead MoreGenetically Modified Foods in Our Grocery Stores3022 Words   |  12 PagesThey are called Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s), and it has been estimated that over 75% of processed foods on supermarket shelves contain genetically engineered ingredients, which Americans have been eating since 1996. â€Å"Currently up to 85% of the United States’ corn is genetically engineered (GE), as are 91% of soybeans and 88% of cotton (cottonseed oil is often used in food products)† (About Genetically Modified Foods). What does it mean when a food is Genetically Modified? To understandRead MoreFactors of the Increasing Trend to Consume Organic Foods1484 Words   |  6 PagesThere is a growing relationship between Organic Food marketers and their consumer’s base. Over the years increased food awareness has made an impact on the way consumers are choosing their food. Awareness relating to the use of genetically modified food sources has left some consumers concerned for their health, and they see eating organically as a positive substitute. Researchers are investigating what other factors and marketing techniques are affecting consumer’s trends for organic food. ThroughRead MoreEssay about The Morals and Ethics of Genetic Engineering3310 Words   |  14 Pageswhat are now common practices are entering public attention, and as a culture we are left to question whether the change brought on by such a discovery bring benefits and positive change, or damage and destruction. Genetic engineering is justified through applied bioethics and despite arguments against its societal implantation, should be fully utilized in efforts to develop into the 21st century. Genetic engineering refers to the technology used to alter and transport genomes and organisms, effectivelyRead MoreEssay on The Ethics of Genetically Modified Food Production4151 Words   |  17 PagesThe Ethics of Genetically Modified Food Production As human technological innovation proceeds into the twenty-first century, society is faced with many complex issues. Genetic engineering and cloning, encryption and information security, and advanced weapons technologies are all prominent examples of technological issues that have substantial moral and ethical implications. Genetic engineering in particular is currently a very volatile subject. One important aspect of this field is GMORead More Agricultural Genetic Engineering Essay2889 Words   |  12 Pagesdirectly modify living organisms is a novel human technology. Since the discovery of the DNA molecule the field of genetics has grown at an astounding rate. We now have the ability to alter organisms to fit our needs. This prospect offers the possibility of solving problems that have plagued humanity for thousands of years. In recent years genetically modified organisms have found many practical applications, particularly in the agricultural sector. Genetically modified organism s in this area, called