Advantages and Disadvantages of Gm Foods

Submitted by Stella Morgan on December 8, 2009

Genetically Modified foods have been hailed as the thing of the future. The essence of such foods revolves around the isolation of certain genes such that advantageous traits may be deliberately created. The advantages of these range from the crops to the environment and society in general. Termed GM foods, they’re an interesting option because of the better quality of crops that they make possible. Even the very taste of such crops can be superior to those of a regular harvest.

Also, from the dietary angle, nutrients may actually be increased. This translates into tastier and more nutritious food and crops. The main advantages of GM foods revolve around one term – yield.

These can increase yield in a multitude of ways. Those herbicides and pesticides might not be needed in such large quantities anymore, thanks to this scientific advancement.

This is why people tend to get confused about which is organic and what is GM food.

However, these two are completely separate since the former foods essentially are not supposed to have those GM ingredients. GM food, on the other hand, hold benefits when it comes to problems of soil conservation as well as saving other resources necessary for crop production. Perhaps one of the biggest benefits may be a sure supply of food needed when we look at growing populations and starving millions across the globe.

Genetically modified food, while innovative and with so much potential, has always been mired by astounding controversies.

One of the most alarming negative consequences is the health problem potential. Most of the effects are yet unknown because of inadequate or inconclusive research done on GM food. Health and safety is one of the focus points of such debates. There of course are other GM food controversies such as the raging ethics debate. Allergens may also be a concern with such genetically modified food. Labeling is another controversy so you might not realize that that packet of milk or corn that you pick up might be genetically modified.

Bear in mind that research and popular opinion tends towards skipping GM foods. The problem with such food is that there are too many unknown factors and too little research or guidelines available since this technology hasn’t fully developed. Perhaps, until scientists can work out the snags associated with GM foods, it’s probably a good idea to stick to the traditional variety. Food choices, whether GM or not, need to be healthy and balanced