The Benefits Of Genetic Modification In Agriculture

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Genetic modification of plants has occurred for hundreds of years, as farmers want to improve yields and decrease disease resistance. Genetic modification can be done by different methods including cross breeding, selection, and hybridization (Facts about GMOs). This can take a long time and can require many decades of work. Examples of common foods produced through these ways include nectarines which are genetically modified peaches. Some benefits of this genetic engineering in agriculture include reduced need for pesticides, increased nutrient composition, reduced costs for food or drug production, resistance to pests and disease, as well as some medication production (Phillips 1). In the 1990s, genetic modification techniques moved Once they are approved in these countries, millions of people will reap the benefits. A lot of consumers in Asia do not get enough vitamin A in their diets which consists mainly of rice (Paarlberg). Since they are not getting enough vitamin A, there is a high incidence of blindness and eye problems in these countries. If farmers were allowed, they could plant a product that is called “golden rice” that has been genetically modified to contain vitamin A. Another example of how GMOs could be beneficial is in India. Both consumers and farmers are being exposed to dangerous pesticides when they consume and grow eggplant. A GMO product could help reduce harmful effects by decreasing the amount of pesticide required to properly grow the eggplant. In East Africa, maize is commonly destroyed due to droughts which leads to hunger and poverty for the citizens. If farmers were given permission, they could grow a hybrid of maize that has been genetically modified and is drought-resistant (Paarlberg). These developing countries would benefit greatly from the use of GM technology. It’s a shame that the population doesn’t realize the dire need for GMOs. Further, if the FDA decides to require labeling for products that contain GMOs, it could be even more detrimental to these developing countries due to the perceived negative effects of genetically modified organisms. A lot of products that are consumed in even the United States contain GMOs and consumers do not even realize

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