Genetically Modified Foods

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the ongoing debate over genetically modified (GM) or genetically engineered (GE) foods, which includes such issues as labeling, GM free stores and federal regulations. The paper first explains that GM or GE foods are defined as crop plants created for human or animal consumption using the latest molecular biology techniques. The paper then relates that, despite FDA approval, opponents of GM foods can be found worldwide and their opposition concerns issues such as environmental violation, contamination of non-GM crops, harm to wildlife, and health hazards. Next, the paper looks and how those in favor of GM and GE foods point out the benefits of these foods, such as an increase in crop yield, an improvement in nutritional quality, economic growth, environmental protection, food for world poor, and health enhancement. The paper contends that it is important to educate consumers about these foods since it appears that their production will continue.

From the Paper:

"From the beginning of discussions on regulations regarding GM foods, this topic has led to serious debates in government, organizations and consumers. Albert Gore, Jr. (D-Tenn.) held the first congressional hearing on the implications of genetic engineering in 1983. He used the example of the European gypsy moth and its destruction of the environment, stressing that the organisms being created today are completely new genotypes and their potential for environmental damage could be significant. He stated, it is essential that "we understand all the potential environmental ramifications of an organism before it is released into the ecosystem--instead of waiting and finding out about them after damage has occurred" (Gore, 1985, p. 12). Most American citizens who knew of this new field did not show support to alter plants and animals. They were insisting that biotechnology experiments be performed in sealed facilities and that any genetically modified products be strictly monitored."

Sample of Sources Used:

• AgBio World, Scientists in support of agricultural biotechnology. February 27, 2008 http://www.agbioworld.org/declaration/index.html
• BioDemocracy. Hazards of genetically engineered food and crops. Ronnie Cummins. February 27, 2008.http://www.organicconsumers.org/ge-free.cfm
• N. Borlaug, (1999) Biotech can feed eight billion in the next century. New perspectives quarterly 25(1): 129-132
• D.A. Christopher. (2000). The Gene genie's progeny. In The World & I. Washington, DC: Washington Times Corporation.
• K. Gay,(2008) Super Food or Super Threat. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers.

More papers on Genetically Modified Foods:

• Term Paper # 89119 : "Genetically Modified Foods"
• Argumentative Essay # 64677 : "Genetically Modified Foods"
• Term Paper # 109277 : "Genetically Modified Foods"
• Persuasive Essay # 8394 : "Should Genetically Modified Foods be Banned?"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: