Benefits of Genetically Modified Foods

In 1984, the first successful genetically modified plant, antibiotic-resistant Tobacco, came into the picture. By 1994, the FDA approved the sale of the first genetically modified crop, a tomato, in the United States. One year later, numerous genetically modified crops hit the market, including corn and wheat. The use of genetically modified crops for food has become an increasingly controversial issue. Despite their successes in the United States, many other nations are wary of adopting modified crops, and their sentiment is catching on in America too. Many people continue to question GM foods possible impact on humanity and the environment. Claims that they cause health problems or allergies are widespread throughout the media. However, most of these claims are unsubstantiated, and rely heavily on opinion or fluke studies. Furthermore many ignore the numerous possible benefits that genetically modified foods could offer humanity. Genetically modified crops are not only safe; they are extremely beneficial in facing many of the world’s current and likely future hunger and health problems.
Genetically modified foods provide a cheaper and healthier alternative to those with limited access to food. Genetic modification helps farmers decrease production costs by making plants more resilient, which in turn helps lower the cost of food. Currently the FDA is reviewing AquAdvantage, a type of genetically modified salmon. According to Martin Smith, an environmental policy analyst at Duke University, and his colleagues at Science, “GM salmon could put fresh salmon in reach as a protein source for low-income households susceptible to conditions linked to poor nutrition” (Keim). Since GM salmon is easier to farm and grows quicker it reduces ...

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