Taking a Look at Genetically Modified Organisms

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Recommended: Importance of genetically modified organisms

Genetically modified organisms (also known as GMO’s), are organisms whose genetic material has been modified especially by genetic engineering (Chien). These organisms are modified in many different ways. They could have pesticides put into them for killing off bugs; they also could have chemicals that either prolong the life of the organism or make the organism able to grow at all times even when not in season (Broeders). GMO’s can be used on plants, crops, or animals. The variety of uses for GMO’s has made them known worldwide and has shown just how versatile GMO’s can be. Genetically modified organisms can be used in plants and crops in many different ways. One of the most common ways GMO’s can be made is by adding different types of chemicals into the plant or crop that can make the plant or crop resistant to pesticides. This is so farmers can spray the plants and crops with pesticides to eliminate weeds without harming the crops (Perowne). A major positive to this type of GMO’s is that there has been some recent research and development to create insect resistant crops in developing countries creating a better food supply for these countries (Pieper). The first genetically modified crop that was approved for sale was called the FlavrSavr tomato and had a longer shelf life. As of 2013, an apple that has been genetically engineered to resist browning is awaiting approval and could be on the shelves of stores in America in the next few months. This is a new type of GMO that could benefit almost everyone by making crops and plants available much longer than they could be in the first place. Americans throw out hundreds of dollars a year on fruits and vegetables that have gone bad and creating a new type of GMO that could preven... ... middle of paper ... ...omedicine & Biotechnology., 2012. Web. 3 Nov. 2013. Chien, Karen. "Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)." Bacillus Thuringiensis. University of California San Diego, n.d. Web. 03 Nov. 2013. Frank, Lone. "Italian Scientists Blast GMO Restrictions." Science 290.5499 (2000): 2046. Student Resources In Context. Web. 3 Nov. 2013. Perowne, Clemmie. "GMO Superweed' Dangers Dismissed as Minimal Risk." LexisNexis Academic. N.p., 29 July 2005. Web. 3 Nov. 2013. Pieper, Kevin. "As Effectiveness Fades, Herbicide Costs Increase." USA Today. Gale Database, 17 Apr. 2012. Web. 10 Oct. 2013. Sorondo, Marc. "Merced County Hires GMO." Investment Management Weekly 26 Nov. 2007: ITEM07330008. Student Resources In Context. Web. 3 Nov. 2013. Tepfer, Mark. "How synthetic biology can avoid GMO-style conflicts." Nature 437.7058 (2005): 476. Health Reference Center Academic. Web. 3 Nov. 2013.

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