The Possiblities of Genetically Engineered Food - 1597 Words

Genetically engineering food could be a viable possibility to ending the problem world hunger. There are many advantages to this solution but there are also disadvantages. This paper will aim to show both the advantages and disadvantages. I also hope to show the environmental impact that it could have. What is genetically engineered food? Genetically engineered foods are created when genes from plant and non-plant species are modified and transferred to create a food species that has certain desired effects such as being drought or pest resistant (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). When food is genetically engineered in a lab the traits that are desired from the species can be obtained with great accuracy (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). Genes can†¦show more content†¦Another threat to crop growth is herbicides, this is because it is sometimes more conventional for a farmer to use them for weed control versus hand picking weeds (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). Through genetic engineering, scientist s can develop crops that are herbicide resistant allowing farmers to use herbicides to kill weeds and not damage the crops they are trying to grow (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). This not only prevents crop loss due to herbicides, but it also reduces the amount of herbicides that are needed which benefits the environment due to less agricultural waste being generated (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). This is also beneficial economically because the farmer has less production costs and these savings can also be passed down to the consumer (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). Genetic modification of food can also boost the nutritional value of food (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). In many third world countries there is a rise in malnutrition, by boosting the nutritional value of crops this could benefit these countries in that the people living there will have access to adequate nutrition (Whitman, Deborah, 2000). It is also important to note that malnutrition can also be a problem in developed countries as well, th ough there may be an abundance of food, the food often may lack enough nutritional value to support optimum health (Health Worldnet, 2008). One example is rice, according to an article the Genetically Modified Food: The Benefits and Risks on Health