Biotechnology Essay, Research Paper
Genetically Modified Foods
Are genetically modified foods safe? Genetically modified foods are crop plants created for human or animal consumption using molecular biological techniques. These plants have been modified to enhance certain traits like increased resistance to herbicides or improve nutritional content. This process traditionally has been done through breeding, but is not very accurate. Scientists have been using biotechnology to implant the gene that makes the plants act the way they want them to. Genetically modified foods have advantages and disadvantages on the environment and advantages and disadvantages on society. We have to weigh the positives and negatives to see if genetically modified foods are healthy for us and if we really need them.
Genetically modified foods have a huge impact on our environment. One way that genetically modified foods are hurting our environment is that process can involve the exchange of genes between two totally different species. People are actually putting scorpion toxin into corn and fish antifreeze into tomatoes (De Greef). These changes in the plants make the plant able to with stand the attack of pests and weather, but it is still possible that the plant?s DNA will cross and make bad toxins. If a farmer plants a crop that has the resistance to herbicides, drought, cold, and pests those plants can eventually cross with weeds and then the farmer will end up with weeds that are resistant to everything too. Then the scientists will end up having to make the plants stronger to fight off the weeds, then the weeds will get stronger, and the cycle will keep on going. Another argument for the ban of genetically modified foods is that the world does not need to grow them. Mainly because of the fact that the United States and Europe are overproducing food and have to set aside land and destroy crops. Land is also being degraded and wildlife killed by the strength of the new crops. As a result if we use a less intense technique, like normal farming, it will reduce pollution and produce healthier foods.
There are also some positive impacts that genetically modified foods have on the environment. In fact, a ruling was made that there are no threats to the environment at this time (Becker). There is a gene that is transplanted into corn that is being produced for chickens to make the chickens have more meat on them. There are other genes that are being made to have the plant make their own pesticides (Becker). Through the use of biotechnology, crops are now able to withstand drought, frost, and pests. This means that crops would be able to be growing in places where crops could not grow because of conditions.
Genetically modified foods also have an impact on our society. They have many negative effects. One of the negative aspects is the testing requirements. “There are no requirements for independent testing, for long-term testing, for testing on humans or testing for specific dangers to children or allergic people” (Clinton Urged). Scientists say that there needs to be long-term testing because genetically modified foods could give rise to the spread of new poisons, new allergies, and even a reduction in a food?s nutritional value (Clinton Urged). For example, in 1989 thirty-seven people died and one thousand five hundred people were disabled after eating a genetically altered health food supplement that had contained a previously unknown toxin (Clinton Urged). In fact, the only long-term research that was carried out in the UK was government-funded research by a government-appointed top scientist. This scientist concluded that genetically engineered potatoes caused severe harm to their control-rats (De Greef). The UK government immediately dismissed his result and his research institute silenced him. The FDA is currently being prosecuted for covering up the same kind of research that was done in the UK that suggests possible risk in genetically engineered foods (De Greef). The EPA recently heard from scientists who warned them that there is no safe level of allergens in foods (Kimbrell). This is starting to have a great effect on our society. In fact, Starlink is a company that produces an insecticide protein. It has not been approved for human consumption over concerns that it could cause dangerous allergic responses in some people. The EPA?s review of Starlink found that the data submitted was either inconclusive or indicates that it exhibits some characteristics of known allergens (Kimbrell). For example, not to long ago Kellogg?s was forced to shut down production at one of its US cereal plants because the company could not find corn that was not contaminated by Starlink corn. Another example is Nestle. Nestle is the world?s largest food company and is the leading maker of infant formulas. They also make Butterfinger candy bars, Toll House chocolate chips and Nestle Quick. Nestle has pledged to avoid genetically modified ingredients in several European countries, yet it refused to accept this in the United States (Clinton Urged).
Genetically modified foods also have some positive aspects on society. In 1999, there were thirty-seven genetically modified foods that were commercialized. In the next few months there is expected to be thirty more. Transgenic seed generates fifty to seventy million dollars a year (Genetically Modified). Many companies hire people because of the need to test the new products that are designed. There are one hundred and thirty thousand new hybrid varieties of corn produced each year (Genetically Modified). Only twenty of these new types will become commercial. Which shows that they are doing tests. Another advantage for genetically modified foods is soy. New soy products will be used in baked goods, eggs, meat, cheese, and sport drinks. Soy also reduces the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, and prostate cancer. Mark Van?t Noordende, from ABS Global was quoted saying, “The use of all these technologies together hold tremendous promise for enhancing the quality of products in several industries” (Genetically Modified). He also went on to say, “Dairy and beef producers should begin to see tremendous improvement in commercial characteristics such as milk production and carcass traits, and these advancements will benefit the entire food production chain from dairy and beef producers to distributors and retailers” (Genetically Modified). Right now there is a bill in Congress to start labeling genetically modified foods and their products because the consumer needs to know what they are placing in their bodies (Clinton Urged).
So are genetically modified foods safe for the environment and for society? They are safe for the environment because they reduce the use of herbicides and pesticides. But at the same time they are bad for the environment because they could cross-pollinate with other plants and it would take harsher and harsher conditions to kill the undesired plants and kill animals. It is a multimillion-dollar industry that could be causing the death of people because agencies around the world are allowing them to be put in the stores. Then other countries ban them all together. Yet there seems to be no long-term testing being done on the effects they have on human beings or warnings on the products that they do contain genetically modified ingredients. The only solution that can be done is to continue testing all the genetically modified products, so that when they do get into our stores they are safe for everyone.
Sources
Becker, Hank. Revolutionizing Hybrid Corn Production. Copyright Economist Newspaper, 1996.
Clinton Urged to Protect Consumers From Bio-Corn Contamination. November 25, 2000. 10 November 2000. consumerunion/food/gef2cpi1000.htm.
De Greef, Willy. A Moral Maize. Copyright Economist Newspaper, 1996.
Genetically Modified Foods. November 25, 2000. 10 November 2000. csa/hottopics/gmfood/oview.html.
Kimbrell, Andrew. “Seeds of Conflict.” PerAds-Ecologist 29 no.4. (Jul 1999): 249-250
Другие работы по теме:
Genetic Engineering Essay Research Paper Imagine a
Genetic Engineering Essay, Research Paper Imagine a world full of ?mini Hitlers? seeking world domination, killing millions as their solution to establish a superior race or bunch or 2 headed humans eating a pig with 6 legs. These scenarios may sound like something out a science fiction novel, but this is the kind of things that people think about when they hear the words ?genetic engineering?
The Third Millennium
– Threat Or Promise Essay, Research Paper About a week ago, a conversation between my friend, Stephen and I was sparked by the new Millennium bridge on the quays. We talked about the prospects of the new millennium and how it has been used as a financial leg-up for companies all around the world. I think that GM foods will wipe out hunger after much research, he strongly disagreed and believes it is just another mess that the human race has brought upon itself.
Genetic Engineering Essay Research Paper Imitating God
Genetic Engineering Essay, Research Paper Imitating God Genetic engineering is an unprecedented alliance between bad science and big businesses, which will curse the end of humanity, as we know it. Lately the scientific advancements have been drastically changing the way that we live our lives. It seems everyday that we wake up, there are new products on the market.
Genetic Engeneering Essay Research Paper Genetic EngineeringI
Genetic Engeneering Essay, Research Paper Genetic Engineering I personally think that genetic engineering could be an excellent thing. People should be able to go as far as they can and do anything possible. Diseases could be avoided. Slow metabolic rates could be avoided, which result in overweight people.
BioTechnology Essay Research Paper The shortterm future
Bio-Technology Essay, Research Paper The short-term future of biotechnology in production agriculture looks bleak. The unattractive truth is that economics, not science can play a larger role in the future of biotechnology.
Gentetically Modified Food Essay Research Paper The
Gentetically Modified Food Essay, Research Paper The article, Frankenfears, written by Andy Coghlan, David Concar and Debora MacKenzie was published in the New Scientist magazine in February of 1999. The article dealt with an issue of rising concern, genetically modified food. Arpad Pusztai, a researcher at the Rowett Research Institute in Aberdeen, suggested that procedures routinely used in genetic engineering can make plants harmful.
Genetic Engineering Essay Research Paper Is genetic
Genetic Engineering Essay, Research Paper Is genetic engineering right or wrong? People have been tackling this debate for the past 10 to 15 years and have all come up with conclusions of their own. It is a controversial topic due to it?s moral and ethical issues but the use of genetic engineering on agriculture, animal and possibly humans is proving to be helpful in solving many of society?s common problems.
Heraclitus Essay Research Paper JUST as 130
Heraclitus Essay, Research Paper JUST as 130 nations were meeting in Montreal recently to forge the first global treaty regulating genetically modified crops, Frito-Lay Inc. was telling its farmers in the United States not to grow genetically engineered corn for use in Doritos chips and other snacks. The problem, the company said, was not a risk to health from the corn but a risk that consumers wouldn’t want it.
Gmos Essay Research Paper Benefits of Genetically
Gmos Essay, Research Paper Benefits of Genetically Modified Organisms We live in a world that is constantly changing and advancing thanks to technological advancements, especially in the field of molecular genetics. Today, we are discovering and implementing new ways to overcome the ill-fated symptoms developed as a result from poor health or accidents.
Opposing Genetically Modified Organisms Essay Research Paper
As a result of biotechnology and its wake of controversy that follows, a number or organizations have voiced their concerns toward the corporate driven discipline. As a product of biotechnologies carelessness, or motives, activist groups have risen throughout the world opposing the novelty of genetically modified organisms.
Biotechnology In Food Essay Research Paper REG
Biotechnology In Food Essay, Research Paper REG MITCHELL’s defence of “Frankenfoods” — genetically engineered (GE)farm products — in his Oct. 9 article “So-called Frankenfoods have no more pathogens than are found in nature” is a repetition of the mantra we hear daily from the global corporations that dominate agricultural biotechnology.
Genetic Engineered Foodss Essay Research Paper Alex
Genetic Engineered Foodss Essay, Research Paper Alex Ruiz Per.6 11/22/00 Genetic Engineered Foods Genetic Engineered Foods are too controversial and unstable to be consumed by the general public. Great deals of scientists have very opposite opinions about Genetic Engineered Foods (GE). Genetically altering foods is the process of modifying crops by using new bio-technological methods.
Genetic Engeneering Essay Research Paper Human Awareness
Genetic Engeneering Essay, Research Paper Human Awareness Essay Should genetically engineered food be grown and sold in South Australia? Recently more and more foods that we buy from the supermarket are involved in the manipulation of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) also known as genetic engineering or gene technology. but should genetic engineered food be sold to us the consumers even if we don t know that it has been altered? Like every issue genetic engineering has its good points and it s bad points.
Genetically Modified Food Essay Research Paper The
Genetically Modified Food Essay, Research Paper The issue of genetic engineering has always been a very controversial one. The cloning of ?Dolly? the sheep was hailed as a revolutionary breakthrough by scientists while many groups were sceptical about its repercussions. Only recently however has the topic of genetically creating and modifying foods come to public attention.
Fear In A TestTube Essay Research Paper
Fear in a Test Tube Cloning, genetically tailoring offspring, and creating the perfect human were all advances in science that seemed unattainable yet desirable. People were amazed by the myth of genetically altering DNA, and daydreamed of the day that they themselves could create another living being out of a test tube.
Information About Transgenic Organisms Essay Research Paper
Transgenic Organism, plant, animal, or bacteria that has been genetically modified to contain a gene from a different species. The new gene is inherited by offspring in the same way as the organism’s own genes. The transgenic condition is achieved by injecting the foreign gene into the fertilized egg or into embryonic cells.
Genetic Modification Of Food Argumentive Essay Essay
, Research Paper GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOODS- RISK TO HUMANITYGiant transnational companies are carrying out a dangerous global experiment by introducing large numbers of genetically engineered foods into our diet. Genetic manipulations can result in unanticipated harmful effects, and because genetically engineered foods are not tested sufficiently, this experiment not only jeopardizes the health of individuals, but could also lead to global food shortages and extensive ecological hazards.Due to genetically modified food’s unique and unknown nature, there is potential for adverse health side effects.
Genetic Modification Of Foodstuffs Essay Research Paper
Virtually every crop we eat have undergone hundreds of years of genetic modification by farmers and scientist in search of desirable traits. Selective breeding and hybrid strains have contributed immeasurably to farm productivity during this time. Over the past 30 years however, genetic engineering has been revolutionized.
Technology Essay Research Paper People very often
Technology Essay, Research Paper People very often debate whether technology is good or bad. Many people believe that technology can only cause harm to their lives and society, while many others strongly defend the technologies which have made their lives much more leisurely and enriching than it could have been several hundred years ago.
The Moral And Ethical Concerns With The
Use Of Genetically Modified Crops Essay, Research Paper Background Ethics = ?The study of the moral value of human conduct and the rules and principles that govern it?1. Moral values of a certain topic can vary between
Genetically Engineered Food Essay Research Paper Millions
Genetically Engineered Food Essay, Research Paper Millions of people all over the planet suffer from poverty and starvation. One very interesting but experimental solution to the problem of world hunger is genetically engineered food. The process involves the crossbreeding of crops in a laboratory with species that are not plant like.
Genetic Engineering Essay Research Paper Genetically Engineered
Genetic Engineering Essay, Research Paper Genetically Engineered Plants Genetic engineering has some history of good and bad. In 1989as a result of the food supplement Typtophan, 37 people died, 1500 were permanently disabled, and 5000 were very ill as result of high toxin levels in the food. No one knows the future side effects.
What Is Biotechnology Essay Research Paper Biotechnology
What Is Biotechnology? Essay, Research Paper Biotechnology as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary is the manipulation of biological organisms to make products that benefit human beings. This in essence is biotechnology but one might still be confused by this topic.
Horizontal Gene Transfer Essay Research Paper Horizontal
Horizontal Gene Transfer Essay, Research Paper Horizontal Gene Transmission For centuries, humankind has made improvements to crop plants through selective breeding and hybridization, the controlled pollination of plants. Plant technology is an extension of this traditional plant breeding with one important difference, plant biotechnology allows for the transfer of a greater variety of genetic information in a more precise controlled manner.
Business Analysis Essay Research Paper Calgene IncCalgene
Business Analysis Essay, Research Paper Calgene, Inc Calgene was founded in 1980 in Davis, California. They believed that genetic engineering could be applied successfully into the worlds Agricultural Business. In 1983 Roger Salquist joined Calgene as vice president of marketing. He helped shaped Calgenes Future direction by making product development responsible to research rather than to marketing, allowing science to drive the products.
Tech Essay Research Paper Imagine thirty or
Tech Essay, Research Paper Imagine thirty or forty years form now. Biotechnology has really advanced. Scientist can now clone people and also change their DNA strands making them better or perfect all around. Do you think that it is safe to tinker with Mother Nature? Is it wise to try and control Mother Nature? Better yet can she ever be controlled? Whether or not she can be controlled is a big of deal.
To Eat Or Not To Eat Essay
, Research Paper To Eat or Not to Eat, That is the Question How often do you think of genetics or biotechnology as you are enjoying your favorite foods? Does gene splicing ever cross your mind as you slice tomatoes, or do you ever think about growth hormones as you sink your teeth into that juicy steak? Not very often if you are like most people, but perhaps you should.
Genetics Essay Research Paper GeneticsGenetics should be
Genetics Essay, Research Paper Genetics Genetics should be used to improve humans. Genetic alterations would be the most important thing to humans. If you genetically alter a retarded person, you could make them normal. It would cost a lot of money to be genetically altered, but the parents would gladly pay any price to see their child as an acceptable member of society.
Genetically Altered Food Essay Research Paper Environmental
Genetically Altered Food Essay, Research Paper Environmental sctence Genetically Altered Foods It is quite evident that as technology advances m the scientific sense, we as Americans are becoming more interested. One of the conflicts that have raised concern here lately is that on genetically altered foods.
Analysis Of Opposition Essay Essay Research Paper
Analysis of Opposition Essay In the first paragraph of Congressman Bernard Sanders persuasive essay on genetically modified organisms uses shocking statistics to convince the reader the issue of genetic engineering effects everyone. He points out that genetically engineered organisms are already on the table, and the usage of GMO s (genetically modified organisms) is on the rise.