If you read about genetically modified crops you may think about science fiction movies and radishes the size of a car. This is the not the case today, but many of the foods you eat are coming from special plants. There are advantages to genetically modifying these plants, and there may be disadvantages. Here is a closer look at "what is genetic engineering".
Perhaps the biggest reason to modify crops is to increase the supply of food. Greater food supply translates into lower food prices. This can be done by changing the DNA in seeds to make plants disease resistant. Some diseases can devastate crops and cause serious shortages. This is caused when farmers plant most of their fields in the same type of crops.
Genetically Modified or GMO crops are stronger than previous generations. Some genetically modified crops will live through long drought periods. One never knows when there will be plenty of rain or not, and these special plants can mean the difference between success and failure.
When you change the DNA structure of something there are no guarantees of the results. It is possible that a lot of people may develop allergies to certain GMO foods. Also, genetic alteration may create toxins.
GMO makes super plants that can resist the affects of modern poisons and pesticides. This simplifies the process of spraying, as one does not have to avoid the crops. However, these super crops can create an even bigger problem as weeds and some insects become immune to the insecticides and weed killers. This creates a new generation of super insects and weeds.
When you closely examine the question what is genetic engineering you will see pros and cons. The main problem is, a lot of consumers are unaware that these crops have been altered. With GMO labeling, people can decide if they want these products or not.
Perhaps the biggest reason to modify crops is to increase the supply of food. Greater food supply translates into lower food prices. This can be done by changing the DNA in seeds to make plants disease resistant. Some diseases can devastate crops and cause serious shortages. This is caused when farmers plant most of their fields in the same type of crops.
Genetically Modified or GMO crops are stronger than previous generations. Some genetically modified crops will live through long drought periods. One never knows when there will be plenty of rain or not, and these special plants can mean the difference between success and failure.
When you change the DNA structure of something there are no guarantees of the results. It is possible that a lot of people may develop allergies to certain GMO foods. Also, genetic alteration may create toxins.
GMO makes super plants that can resist the affects of modern poisons and pesticides. This simplifies the process of spraying, as one does not have to avoid the crops. However, these super crops can create an even bigger problem as weeds and some insects become immune to the insecticides and weed killers. This creates a new generation of super insects and weeds.
When you closely examine the question what is genetic engineering you will see pros and cons. The main problem is, a lot of consumers are unaware that these crops have been altered. With GMO labeling, people can decide if they want these products or not.
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When you would like to learn more on the value of genetically modified or GMO labeling go to the What is Genetic Engineering website. You also can read about issues with genetically modified crops when you visit this site today.
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