Genetically Modified Foods and Their Impact on Human Health

Genetically modified food (GM) has become the subject of discussion in academic, research, media, and scientific circles. It basically means food that has been made either for animals or human beings using the recent technology in biotechnology, genetic engineering, recombinant DNA technology, or basically the gene technology (Thiemann & Palladino, 2009). Together, through online chat, we can work towards a comprehensive understanding of genetically modified food and its potential implications for human health and the environment.

The Evolution of Genetic Modification in Plants

Genetic modification in plants was first recorded 10,000 years ago in Southwest Asia where humans first bred plants through artificial selection and selective breeding. Since then, advancements in agriculture science and technology have brought about the current GM crop revolution. Nevertheless, the current growth rate of the GM seed market at 9.83–10% CAGR along with promising research avenues in biofortification, precise DNA integration and stress tolerance have forecast it to bring productivity and prosperity to commercial agriculture.

What GM crops are Currently Being Grown and Where?

1. The GM crops grown commercially included: potato (USA), squash/pumpkin (USA) alfalfa (USA), aubergine (Bangladesh), sugar beet (USA, Canada), papaya (USA and China), oilseed rape (4 countries), maize (corn) (17 countries), soya beans (11 countries) and cotton (15 countries).

2. Among the countries growing GM crops, the USA (70.9 Mha), Brazil (44.2 Mha), Argentina (24.5 Mha) India (11.6 Mha) and Canada (11 Mha) are the largest users. Within Europe, five EU countries grow GM maize – Spain, Portugal, Czech Republic, Romania and Slovakia. Spain is the leading country (0.1 Mha). In Africa, GM crops are grown in South Africa (2.3 Mha), Burkino Faso (0.4 Mha) and Sudan (0.1Mha), with the main crop being GM cotton.

Advantages of Genetically Modified or GM Crops

The genetic engineering is one of the great marvels of 21st century human. It allowed for precise control over the genetic changes introduced into an organism. They are basically biological altered organism. I

1. It improves production and raise farmer's income. Indian farmers are still practicing traditional process of seeding and cultivation, which required scientific moves for raising their production. Hence, it is one of the moves to enhance the farm production.

2. It reduces the use of pesticide and insecticide during farming that might be great moves for the betterment of the food supply.

3. It can feed a rapidly increasing population because it shows dramatically increased yields.

4. It can produce more in small area of land.

Disadvantages of Genetically Modified or GM Crops

1. Allergic Reactions

There is a small risk that GMO foods can trigger an allergic reaction, but this will only happen if the genetic change triggers the production of an allergen. For instance, if scientists combine a gene from a Brazil nut with a soybean, there is a slight chance trusted Source that a person with a nut allergy could have an allergic reaction to products made with the soybean.

2. GMOs may Contribute to Antibiotic Resistance

GMOs are mostly incorporated with antibiotic-resistant genes so as to make the crops that will grow stronger. It is contemplated but not corroborated that the procedure could be contributing to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

3. Some research has linked GMOs to cancer

A research that was initially published in 2013 showed that herbicide found in Round-up tolerant crops led to the development of cancer in rats. The paper was later taken back by the first journal that published it for having unfounded or deceptive information; however, other journals have printed it since the withdrawal. Thus, a lot of individuals have concluded that consumption of the modified corn could be dangerous to their health.

4. Future of Genetically modified food

The world is now on the cusp of a second potential agricultural revolution, the so-called Gene Revolution, in which modern biotechnology can enable the production of genetically modified (GM) crops tailored to address chronic agricultural problems in specific regions of the world. The authors compare the Green Revolution with the current GM crop movement to assess not only the technological differences in the crops and agricultural methods of these two movements, but more generally to examine the economic, cultural, and political factors that influence whether a new agricultural technology is adopted and accepted by farmers, consumers, and governments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, genetically modified crops have been around for thousands of years through selective breeding, but the current GM crop revolution has brought about advancements in biotechnology and genetic engineering. While GM crops have been shown to increase yields and reduce pesticide use, there are also concerns about potential health risks such as allergens, antibiotic resistance, and cancer. Despite these concerns, the future of genetically modified food looks promising, with potential for tailored GM crops to address chronic agricultural problems in specific regions of the world. As with any new technology, it is important to continue research and ensure that GM crops are safe for human consumption and the environment.