Pros and Cons of Genetically Modified Foods

For the past two decades scientists have experimented with genetically modified crops and animals. In order to genetically modify a plant or animal such as soybeans, DNA from a soybean is crossed, or sliced, with the DNA of something else, such as a pesticide or another type of plant that may produce more nutrients. This is known as recombinant DNA, or rDNA, technology.

Arguments exist on both sides for and against the growing trend by many of the world's nations as to why they should or should not alter the genetic make-up of plants and animals.

Advocates for genetic modification argue that DNA-enhanced livestock and crops can better sustain the burgeoning world population. They cite examples such as:

o Hybrid seeds fortified with more nutrients, such as increased iron

o Plants that produce their own pesticides

o Leaner livestock modified with healthier traits, such as no trans fats

o Plants and animals lacking allergens

Proponents also believe that such advances in technology will enable people living in poorer regions of the world to better feed their populations.

Opponents to genetically modified produce and animals believe that such "frankenfoods" may have devastating effects on the natural world order. They are concerned with issues such as:

o Crops cross-pollinating with other plants, creating "superweeds"

o Unclear labels thereby reducing the public's awareness that their food has been modified

o Unknown health risks associated with genetic modification

o Monopoly of the food supply by those producing modified crops and livestock

Currently many countries already produce genetically modified food including the United States, China, India, Brazil, Argentina, Indonesia, Mexico and South Africa. The U.S. is the biggest producer with crops such as corn, soybeans, canola, and cotton.

Due to the concerns from both advocates and opponents, both sides of the debate have come together over the past couple of years in forums and summits all over the world to discuss the issue. Some have called for tighter restrictions and labeling of all products, others believe that more testing should be done. And still other individuals have begun storing and selling non hybrid seeds in an attempt to preserve natural species in case of an unforeseen event that may damage the world's food supply.

No matter which side an individual chooses remaining informed about genetically modified food is one of the keys to understanding the debate and making healthy eating choices.

Some have called for tighter restrictions and labeling of all products, others believe that more testing should be done. And still other individuals have begun storing and selling their own non hybrid seeds [http://www.arkinstitute.com] in an attempt to preserve natural species in case of an unforeseen event that may damage the world's food supply.

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