Genetically modified Organisms are used to improve plants and make them tough to withstand difficult environmental conditions, improve nutritional content and taste. Generally, they are used to make the better version of the natural plant.
GMO are created through genetic engineering. This is done through introducing a resilient DNA from one organism to another. Most foods that have undergone genetic engineering are regulated in the US.
As anything else, GMO foods have both advantages and disadvantages. This depends on the intention of modifying the crop. Unlike the advantages, the disadvantages are dire and can last a lifetime. Let’s dig in.
Some of the advantages of GMOs include ability to grow in harsh climate conditions. This means they can withstand difficult environmental conditions and grow to maturity where natural plants couldn’t. Food security can be another advantage because these crops are resistant to viruses and other plant diseases. Making themselves favorable to farmers.
Nutritional value makes another pro. Some plants can be modified to add nutritional contents to consumers. Eg golden rice that addresses Vitamin A deficiency. GMO food can be attractive to consumers. In terms of size, appearance and even shape. They are made to be perfect and appealing.
Other benefits includes improved flavor, longer life before spoiling and the foods production increases due to their ability to be tolerant thus increasing food security.
The health disadvantages of GMO foods are a concern. Although research is ongoing, some health issues are evident. Let’s check some out.
Allergic reaction is one of the most significant side effect of GMO foods. This happens when engineers modify the plant and the modification triggers the production of allergen in the body upon consuming. The foreign gene triggers an immune response leading to allergic reaction.
Inability to regrow the plantsthrough seeds. Unlike natural plants that can regrow through seeds, GMO plants’ seeds can onlube provided by the company that made them. So you have to always buy the seeds everytime you want to plant.
Decreasing biodiversity is another hazard. GMO s can be pest resistant meaning the pest cannot survive without the crop thus disturbing the foodchain. The ones depending on the pest as food to survibe will also be at risk
Unnatural Taste. GMOs are different from the natural plants due to the DNA material added in them. This makes the taste unusual. This makes them totally unsafe to eat to some percentage. This is due to the material in them. Not only to us humans but also insects and birds. The substances in them can cause even diseases.
Toxicity to human organs can be another disadvantage. The liver, kidney, pancreas, and reproductive system may all be at risk upon consumption of GMOs. This is due to the chemicals and materials they contain.
Resistance to Antibacteria by the human body is another side effect. Upon ingestion, the modified food produce genes that make the body resistant to antibiotics. This makes it hard for them to work on your body.
Also other disadvantage include change in human DNA due to the modification done on them. The USA Food And Drug Administration has done everything possible to regulate foods that are genetically engineered. For them to sell, they have to meet the same standards as the Non-GMO food. This should tell you what you need to know about GMOs.