Genetically Modified Organisms - life forms that have had their DNA altered by artificial methods, usually to confer abilities that would never be possible in nature.
For a long time I opposed GMO foods, even writing papers in school against them. I have read enough research to realize that some GMOs have their place in society. Technically every domesticated crop or animal is a GMO. Some are made in a lab while others are made from cross-breeding. Some can be purely beneficial like wild mustard which has been modified to produce several healthy vegetables. Throughout the world, a slight aversion to GMO foods is present. (5) Roughly 26% of people prefer Non-GMO foods. (5) Unsurprisingly, foods that are genetically modified to give nutritional benefits are less avoided. (5) Fat cells in plants are unaffected by GM processes so they end up not containing any unwanted substances. (5) Sugar is in the same boat as it has had its impurities removed during processing.
A study found GMO potatoes to have the same metabolite composition as conventionally grown. (1) Basically, there are no additional toxins that could have potentially arisen from the genetic modification process. GMO crops require less pesticides and increase yield almost two-fold in underdeveloped countries. (2) One study found toxic effects arising from GMOs. (3) Another study cautions against future complications from GMOs. (4)
While reading an article in the wallstreet journal (suggested by my father), I saw how hollow the argument is against GMOs. The author seemed to focus on a few instances of negative occurrences only. (6)
1 GMO potatoes vs. conventionally grown potatoes
2 GMO yield boost and related pesticide use
3 Health Risks of Genetically Modified Foods
4 Potential Adverse Health Effects of Genetically Modified Crops
5 A Meta-Analysis of Genetically Modified Food Valuation Studies
6 Should Companies Be Required to Label Genetically Modified Foods?
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