By: Megan McDonough August 21st-25th, 2023
Genetically Modified Organisms
What is a GMO?
GMOs are any organism that has been genetically modified with genetic engineering technology. Genetically modified organisms have become a large part of the food industry in the United States. Genetically changing plants and animals allows them to be more useful to our society. Scientists have developed ways to genetically improve production, growth, pest resistance, and environmental toughness. Genetic technology is a fairly new technology and is still undergoing many types of tests to ensure that its use is safe.
Why are GMOs Controversial?
GMOs have raised many arguments in the production society. Many believe that genetic modification is unnatural and unsafe. They are worried about the dangers of damaging biodiversity, the possibility of creating “superweeds” through cross-pollination, and an increase in exposure to allergic reactions. All of these concerns have been tested and proven to be extremely unlikely. I believe that the risks of these downsides are worth the benefits of genetic modification. Genetically modified plants have shown to be more suitable in different environments, and the reliability of these plants has stabilized the price of organic goods. The reduction in the need for unnatural pesticides has decreased the use of chemicals in the environment which has decreased the emission of greenhouse gasses. I think that all developments in technology have pros and cons, nothing good comes for free.
The Bt Gene
I find the Bt gene very interesting. Scientists have genetically modified a gene in corn to naturally reject pests. This modification has served as a major reason for the decrease in greenhouse gasses in our environment by decreasing the use of chemical pesticides by 8.3%. This was achieved by increasing the amount of Bt protein in the cells, which then was lethal to the caterpillars that were eating the corn.
My Infographic
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