The Controversy of Genetically Modified Crops
analytical Essay
1402 words
The Controversy of Genetically Modified Crops
You may know about the emerging field of biotechnology - the medicine, the ethics, the DNA, the Human Genome, etc. But few realize the emergence of its agricultural branch, and the international conflict that has arisen from it. It may apply to you more than you thought, for half of the soybean products and a quarter of the corn you ate in 1999 may have been genetically modified (Kaufman A6). Genetically modified crops (commonly referred to as GMOs) are crops whose characteristics have been altered to produce a favorable trait, whether it be prolonged freshness, a more attractive appearance, or pesticide resistance (Activist 1). Genetic alteration is the act of inserting a gene, which contains specific DNA (usually from another species), into an organism so that it will produce a protein to create a specific trait. Many have argued over the ethical appropriateness of the issue, but this time new concerns come into view. Many consumers all over the world are worried about human safety, environmental preservation, and international trade.
Arguments between the United States and the European Union (EU) have dominated the controversy. And seeing as that the economies of the two systems combined make up about half of the entire world's economy, it is important to try to quell it as soon as possible (External Relations 1). British uncertainty over human safety of GMOs stemmed a ban on all GM production (excluding experimental growth) and on certain GMO imports (U.S. Department of State 1). Its use of the "precautionary principle," which does not allow the full commercialization of GMOs in the EU until they are substantially scientifically proven to be...
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...ticle." E-mail to Kate Pielemeier. "Genetically Modified Crops Feed Ongoing Controversy." The Journal of the American Medical Association. v.283 i2 p.188. InfoTrac Web: Health Reference Center-Academic. 12 Jan. 2000.
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http://europa.eu.int/comm/external_relations/us/intro/index.htm.
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Foods Safe?" FDA Consumer. v34 i1 p.18. InfoTrac Web: Health Reference Center-Academic. U.S. Government Printing Office. 2000. Jan. 2000.
In this essay, the author
- Explains that genetically modified crops are crops whose characteristics have been altered to produce favorable traits, such as prolonged freshness, an attractive appearance, or pesticide resistance.
- Argues that the argument between the united states and the european union (eu) has dominated the controversy.
- Argues that bio-engineering is a new and efficient way of increasing crop production without increasing costs, time, or labor.
- Opines that the eu food safety rule may cost africa $700 million in trade.
- Explains charles marwick's "thesis article." e-mail to kate pielemeier. "genetically modified crops feed ongoing controversy."
- Explains that foods safe?" fda consumer. v34 i1 p.18. u.s. government printing office.
- Argues that the united states is the leading producer, manufacturer, buyer, and seller of genetically modified (gm) foods.
Related
- explanatory
- opinion
- analytical
- The Genetically Modified Foods Controversyexplanatory essayThe past twenty years have seen rise to a new burgeoning scientific field: genetically modified foods. During the plant breeding process, geneticists interfere with the reproduction and modify the genes of the new seedling by introducing a fragment of DNA from another organism that possesses the desired trait. With genetic modification, scientists can increase the pest, herbicide, cold, and drought tolerance so that the crop can survive in harsher climates. In some cases, the nutritional value can even be increased (Ulrich 9). Despite the obvious benefits of more nutritious foods and crops that are hardier and more resistant to harsher climates, there are some concerns surrounding GM foods. Each new alteration can cause an unforeseen allergic reaction, negate the effects of antibiotics, or potentially cause some adverse effects to the environment (Falkner 101). Every newly developed GM food must be tested on a case by case basis as there is no universal method that determines the safety of all modified components. As a result, long term effects of ingesting food with altered material are unknown.
In this essay, the author
- Explains that genetically modified foods can increase pest, herbicide, cold, and drought tolerance. however, there are some concerns regarding gm foods.
- Explains that in the united states, gm foods are prevalent, with 89% of soybeans and 61% of corn being transgenic. europe is suspicious and hostile towards crop alterations.
- Explains that in the u.s., gm foods have received little public opposition due to the fact that food manufacturers are not required to label their products as containing genetically modified ingredients.
- Explains that the european populace has a different response to gm foods. the precautionary principle is based on the idea that even though there is no evidence of negative effects, that does not mean that no risk exists.
- Explains that the u.s. has a more "hands off" policy and places more trust and faith in corporations and biotech companies involved in the production of genetically modified foods.
- Explains that the conflict between the u.s. and the e.u. has permeated into other regions of the world, specifically developing nations.
- Analyzes how the gm food controversy is an example of how two very kindred cultures can be so split over one issue, enough to cause hostility.
- Cites haroon ashraf and c. d. viljoen. gm biotechnology: friend and foe?
- States falkner, robert, herrick, clare b., and sheldon, ian. the global biotech food fight: why the united states got it so wrong.
1350 wordsRead More - Pros And Cons: The Benefits Of Genetically Modified Foodsexplanatory essayThe debate over whether to keep the production genetically modified organisms, or to cease it all together. They help many countries around the world with low food sources, due to climate and other hindrances. With GMO’s aiding countries in need, it will have a helping hand for the availability of more food. These crops and livestock promote ideal solutions to nutrition, world hunger and the environment. With all that being said, GMO foods are one of the most frowned upon food sources in the world. We asked the question “How Does the Ever-Increasing Need for GMO’s affect the Food Industry in the States, and Abroad?” And what are some of the pros, cons, and ways of containment of GMO’s?
In this essay, the author
- Explains the debate over whether to keep the production of genetically modified organisms, or to cease it all together. gmo's help countries with low food sources, due to climate and other hindrances.
- Explains that biotechnology has been helping farmers increase their productivity, boosting crop yields, and providing protection from pests and viruses.
- Explains that genetically modified organisms are known to carry many risks along with its benefits. many gmo’s pose great environmental damage by cross-breeding with weeds.
- Explains that the benefits of genetically modified foods outweigh the risks when it comes to their mass production.
- Opines that re-searchers, farmers, and companies must become more responsible in the containment of genetically modified organisms from the natural environment.
1055 wordsRead More - The Pros and Cons of Genetically Modifying Foodopinion essayThe genetic modification of food is a very controversial subject around the world founded by Monsanto, a company involved in agricultural technology, in the 1980’s (Wikipedia). Since then, many other companies have also started to modify their food to avoid using pesticides. I define genetically modified foods (or GM foods) as foods produced from organisms that have had specific changes introduced into their DNA using the methods of genetic engineering (Wikipedia). There are many different views concerning GMOs and I will explore the ideological and ethical arguments associated with this subject. I will also analyse the global and national perspectives as well as my own, investigating what factors affect the decision of nations or individuals on whether GMOs are enriching or detrimental to health.
In this essay, the author
- Defines genetically modified foods as foods produced from organisms that have had specific changes introduced into their dna using the methods of genetic engineering.
- Describes veganism as a vegetarian diet that excludes meat, eggs, dairy products, and all other animal-derived ingredients.
- Opines that gmos aren't bad for humans' health if they are used properly. nestle uses them purely to benefit the consumer and save money, but the end product remains the same regardless of gene technology.
- Explains that the controversies about gmos and whether they are really bad are mostly based on personal opinions.
- Explains litcharts | romeo and juliet: themes.
- Argues that genetic engineering is the only way food industries can sustain their food demands with the little soil they have for cultivation.
- Opines that the washington gmo bill is overblown, and that new fda food label rules ignore the gm elephant in the room.
- Explains that "gmos are nothing to fear." us news. u.s.news & world report, 4 nov. 2013. hackett, jolinda. "vegan - what is a vegan?
- Opines that the majority of eu governments are set to oppose approval of gm maize.
- States singapore's biosafety guidelines for research, release and importation of genetically modified organisms.
1458 wordsRead More - GMOs are genetically modified organisms, and we have been genetically modifying life for thousands of years (Diamandis and Kotler 102). As a species, we have been selecting animals for their size; we have been selecting fruit and vegetables for their flavor; we have been selecting pets for docility or ability. It is human nature to enhance the environment for what we need. Plants may be genetically modified to become disease resistant, climate resistant, and include higher nutritional values (Whitman 1). Some plants around the world have already been modified to become stronger, more durable, and healthier versions of their old selves. The increase in climate resistance allows many subsistence farmers to trust the fact that an annual harvest wil...
In this essay, the author
- Opines that technological advancements have pros and cons, such as an increased rate of allergic reactions, and unintended consequences. however, correlation does not indicate causation.
- Analyzes whitman, deborah, "genetically modified foods: harmful or helpful?." community supported agriculture.
- Opines that genetically enhanced organisms are necessary to end the war on hunger and save millions of lives.
- Argues that gmos are the solution to the world's hunger issues.
- Opines that gmos: the future of sustainable agriculture? is better than you think. diamandis, peter, and steven kotler.
- Summarizes branum, amy, and susan lukacs' nchs data brief on food allergy among u.s. children: trends in prevalence and hospitalizations.
1079 wordsRead More - Genetically Modified Organisms and the Monsanto Companyexplanatory essayMonsanto: A Legacy or Tragedy? Like most companies starting out, Monsanto had an idea to change the world. An idea to help farmers and consumers alike. The idea was revolutionary, to create and plant genetically modified seeds, grains, and other materials used to produce food.
In this essay, the author
- Explains that monsanto had an idea to change the world, to create and plant genetically modified seeds, grains, and other materials used to produce food.
- Explains that genetically modified organisms (gmos) were presented in the early 1990's to help everyday farmers that struggled with famines, harsh weather conditions, and production.
- Explains that 8.25 million farmers grow genetically modified crops on about 200 million acres of farmland commercially. monsanto has sued millions of farmers with the defense that it is their property.
- Reports that monsanto has sued 142 american farmers and their families to avoid paying additional court costs, attorneys' fees, and in some cases, costs incurred by the company while investigating them.
- Opines that companies are still looking for the next advancement of technology, but at what cost? it is vital to look at the effects of "revolutionary ideas" and review them thoroughly.
616 wordsRead More - Controversy over Genetically Modified Foodopinion essayOver the past decade, there has been much debate on the topic of genetically modified foods. It has been questioned whether or not these products benefit society more than they hurt it. There has not been enough time to study the long term affects of this type of food, but recent findings have shown that the field offers great potential. There are many people who wish to see genetically modified foods banned because they are uncomfortable with the idea, but this type of thinking is completely illogical. Our society should be more accepting towards genetically modified foods because they are a great way to feed our growing population, extra nutrients can be added to the foods, and they offer us a wider, cheaper variety of food.
In this essay, the author
- Opines that society should be more accepting towards genetically modified foods because they are a great way to feed our growing population.
- Defines genetic modification as a special set of technologies that alter the genetic makeup of organisms such as animals, plants, or bacteria.
- Explains that there are more than one billion people who do not have enough food to eat each day, and the situation is only predicted to get worse.
- Explains that thomas malthus predicted that the earth could not provide enough food to sustain its exponentially growing population, but the problem arose again in the mid 1900’s.
- Opines that genetically modified foods are not the best solution to the world's food crises.
- Explains that genetic modifications have already increased crop yields in the united states. twenty years ago, the hawaiian food industry was in great danger of collapsing due to the ring spot virus.
- Explains that genetically modified foods can have nutrients added to them that are not normally found in the organism. this can make having a healthy diet convenient in developed countries, and it can even save lives in third-world countries.
- Explains that genetically altered foods are cheaper than organic counterparts, and that the government spends billions on agricultural subsidies and genetic engineering.
- Argues that activists against genetic engineering are hindering the progress of today's society. there is no reason why scientists should not at least explore all of the possibilities.
- Opines that genetically modified foods have a tremendous potential to solve the problems we might have with our food supply, but they are meeting an opposition.
- Opines that genetically modified foods have an enormous amount of untapped potential and hope to see more acceptance in the near future. the idea is relatively new and there is much to know about the method.
1748 wordsRead More - Taking a Look at Genetically Modified Organismsopinion essayNovember 6, 2013: “Voters Reject Labels for Genetically Engineered Food in Washington State Today” - The New York Times. June 4, 2013: “Monsanto Sued Over Genetically Modified Wheat” - USA Today. November 4, 2013: “Washington Voters Weigh The Ethics of Genetically Modified Foods” - The Washington Post.
In this essay, the author
- Explains that voters reject labels for genetically engineered food in washington state today, and monsanto sued over genetically modified wheat in usa today.
- Opines that the debate over genetically modified food has been blurred or exaggerated by both sides. they argue that it is dangerous, harms the environment, increases health risks, and causes infertility and weight gain.
- Explains that gmos are created by inserting dna from bacteria, viruses, or other plants and animals into a "target species" to create desirable traits.
- Explains that monsanto developed "roundup ready" crops that were able to withstand high levels of herbicides, including glyphosate.
- Explains that bees play an important role in the production of wheat, peaches, almonds, and every other plant. beekeepers reported an average loss of 45.1 percent of hive population.
- Explains that in 2004, monsanto was found guilty of lying and false advertising, but the realization that roundup isn't as earth-friendly as advertised has come too late.
- Explains that genetically modified food has been questioned since its arrival, but new studies revealing harmful effects from their consumption have led to increased concern.
- Compares the results of a norwegian study on the effects of genetically modified food on rats, mice, pigs, and salmon.
- Explains that the us has become the largest grower of gmo corn in the world, but most of it is not feeding people. animals are developing digestive disorders, damaged organs, infertility, weak immune systems, and even chronic depression.
- Explains that 26 countries, including germany, japan and australia, have put bans on gmos, while 60 countries have significant restrictions. monsanto argues that requiring labels for ingredients that don't pose a health issue would undermine both our labeling laws and consumer confidence
- Opines that people have the right to reject being gmo guinea pigs.
1564 wordsRead More - The Problem of Genetically Modified Foodsanalytical essayContrary to popular belief, the field of biotechnology is not new by any means. Archeological evidence shows that ancient Egyptians produced beer by steeping a starch source in water and then fermenting it with yeast, thus, the first form of biotechnology. Flash-forward to the mid-1800’s, scientists, with the help of Gregor Mendel’s laws of genetics, were able to successfully practice “selective breeding” amongst their crops. With this, the field of biotechnology took a huge turn. Scientists now had the understanding necessary to manipulate plants and mate them based on their desired traits. However, until recently, this was all done naturally, through plant-to-plant cross-fertilization. Nowadays, this process can occur instantly, with no need to wait for the natural life cycle of a plant. After a few groundbreaking discoveries, it became apparent that society could greatly benefit from the genetic altercation of these biological resources and consequently, biotechnology boomed.
In this essay, the author
- Explains that biotechnology is not new by any means. ancient egyptians produced beer by steeping a starch source in water and then fermenting it with yeast.
- Explains that biotechnologists can manipulate the actual dna of an organism using enzymes to copy, cut and paste genes in any location or order we please.
- Opines that genetically modified food isn't the answer to world hunger. it's a temporary fix that will cause more problems in the future.
- Explains that people disagree on the use of genetically modified foods for environmental, political, sociological, economical, and ethical reasons.
- Argues that biotechnology could be used to alter the genes of certain crops that would allow them to be grown in spite of extreme weather conditions.
- Explains that agricultural biotechnology (a lot more than just gm crops) is a lot more than just genetically modified crops.
1780 wordsRead More - Food Safety Risks in The United Statesexplanatory essay...d Foods." Labeling of Genetically Engineered Foods. Colorado State University, Sept. 2010. Web. 21 Apr. 2014.
In this essay, the author
- Explains byrne, p., "labeling of genetically engineered foods." colorado state university, sept. 2010.
- Explains that food is the source of over 200 known diseases, including salmonella, listeria, and toxoplasma.
- Explains that genetically modified organisms have been created using molecular biology techniques to enhance certain traits. the u.s. could benefit from cleaning up and simplifying its regulatory processes.
- Explains that consumers' desire for gm labels: is the devil in the details?
2016 wordsRead More - Monsanto Pros And Consopinion essayThere has been an ongoing debate about the use of GMOs in the food we eat since the late 1900’s. People try to decide what is best for the body, but never know what they are feeding themselves even after reading the nutritional labels. Whether eating at a local fast food joint or a high-end restaurant, people are unaware of where their food is actually coming from and the process it takes to their plate. Little do they know that in the beginning stages of what they eat, there is some modification to the crop. Monsanto is an agribusiness focused on the growth of crops involving GMOs. Produced by Monsanto, many genetically modified crops go into several foods that people eat. A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism that uses genes
In this essay, the author
- Argues that gmos should be reduced or stopped because they give more power to corporations, cause unfair deals between corporations and local farmers, and have harmful effects on the human body.
- Explains that monsanto's roundup ready herbicide contains noticeable levels of glyphosate, a proven carcinogen to humans.
- Explains that goldman sachs and monsanto are the only people benefiting from this unfair situation. getting rid of gmos would result in a healthier population, more productive and natural agriculture business.
- Opines that monsanto's main goal is to make money like any other large company.
- Explains that monsanto grows sugar beets, soy, and corn using genetically modified seeds and roundup ready to control the growth of crops before selling them to customers.
- Explains that monsanto has gained notoriety from the public due to their effects on food and humans. people are realizing the damages caused by mega companies on the environment and society.
- Opines that consumers should show more concern about the food they are buying because corporations have the most influence on what the public eats and how much they pay for it.
1751 wordsRead More