The Controversy of GM Crops

Paper Summary:

The paper explores the long-term prospects of GM crops by looking at the scientific controversies regarding these crops' effects on our health, effects on children, their impact on the environment and the possibility of gene contamination. The paper shows how it is not yet clear if the biotechnological revolution is destined to be the magical cure for the famine-torn third world nations or just a temporary solution that may be ridden with unwanted health and economic consequences. The paper concludes that with the divided opinions as to the safety of GM crops, embracing the 'biotechnology way' as a solution presents a difficult choice.

Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
GM Food Regulations and Patenting
GM Foods (Health Effects)
Antibiotic Marker Genes (Danger for Children)
The Environmental Factor
Gene Contamination
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Biotechnology has advanced at an amazing pace and what was only a talk in the last decade is now already a reality. GM food has become a topic of heated debate over the last few years. The ethical perceptions and opinions about GM food are quite varied. Robert Shapiro the CEO of Monsanto feels, "There now exists an opportunity to create a genuine science of nutrition, something that has never existed in human history". In the UK prince Charles' opinion, "I happen to believe that this kind of genetic modification takes mankind into the realms that belong to God, and God alone" [Michael Specter] Besides the ethics of GM food, issues pertaining to the health, environmental effects, Patents and safety regulations and other public concerns have to be carefully ascertained. With millions of people in African (Sudan, Zambia, etc) countries facing chronic hunger and severely malnourished the prospect of GM food as a potential solution to the food crisis needs to be rigorously evaluated."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Linda Bren, 'Genetic Engineering: The Future of Foods?' Accessed May 7th 2008, Available at, http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2003/603_food.html
• Dave Toke, ' The Politics of Gm food: A study of USA, UK' Published by Routledge, 2004,
• Charles Choi, 'Monsanto Wheat Patent Disputed', Feb 5, 2004, The Scientist.
• James Sturcke, "EU Commission Admitted GM Food Uncertainty", Accessed May 7th 2008, Available at,http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2006/apr/18/food.gm
• Greenpeace, 'Monsanto Pays Up', Accessed May 7th 2008, Available at, http://www.greenpeace.org/international/news/monsanto-pays-fine-for-bribery

More papers on The Controversy of GM Crops:

• Essay # 24888 : "Genetically Modified ( GM ) Crops"
• Term Paper # 124593 : "Genetically Modified Foods"
• Research Paper # 61226 : "Genetically Modified Foods"

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