Abstract This work examines specific issues in food biotechnology today. The paper discusses which agencies are responsible for regulation of food products and what this regulation involves. Also discussed are the products that food biotechnology has enhanced. The author notes the consumer's potential unease with food biotechnology, and cites education as helping the public overcome this mistrust. The paper includes an extensive literature review.
Outline:
Introduction
Specific Requirements for Food Additive Ingredients
Food Biotechnology is not New
Consumer Doubts
Issues Management Plan
Summary and Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper "According to the work of Sally L. McCammon, Science Advisor to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service for the U.S. Department of Agriculture: "If genetically engineered organisms are to gain greater acceptance, decisions that address concerns associated with the application of biotechnology to agriculture must be science based. Science also must be the base by which regulatory officials can sure and build upon credibility, remain current and assure a rational basis for decision-making." (1999) McCammon states that the science-based assessment means that "the review of any particular product is done using scientific criteria relevant to that product. Advances in biotechnology -- being able to determine what has actually happened at the molecular and biochemical levels -- have increased the ability of regulators to scrutinize product safety and the effect of product modification upon safety. The scrutinies of certain products and the rigor by which evaluations are performed have also increased due to biotechnology." (1999)"
Tags: food, biotechnology, consumers, food, industry
Abstract In this article, the writer examines the issue of biotechnology in sport . The writer also looks at the effect it has on athletes and society.
From the Paper "Some athletes will probably manage to exploit engineered genes while avoiding catastrophe. But it is clear that as genetic technologies begin trickling into the mainstream of medicine they will change sports profoundly and not for the better. As a society, we will have to ask ourselves whether new records and other athletic triumphs really are a simple continuation of the age-old quest to show what our species can do ... "
A look at the differences between biotechnology companies, blue chip companies, and Silicon Valley computer companies in terms of their organization and workforce.
1,827 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 10 sources, 2000, $ 58.95
Abstract Biotechnology is one of the fastest growing fields in the world. This is evident by how interested the stock market has become in any company that deals in this field. Biotechnology firms have a different organizational culture than companies that are traditional ?Blue Chips.? They are also different from "Silicon Valley" companies because a majority of the employees at biotechnology firms are scientists. Biotechs differ from "Blue Chip" companies because most of the "Blue Chip" employees are in strictly business-related fields, such as finance or marketing. Biotechnology firms are different from "Silicon Valley" companies because their employees are mostly computer programmers. This paper will discuss these differences by using Human Genome Sciences as the example.
A Brief overview of biotechnology Why Biotechnology Firms are Different
An Overview of Human Genome Sciences
Organizational Culture in other Industries
The Culture of Human Genome Sciences
This paper discusses that modern biotechnology has the potential and the promise to change radically our world within a matter of decades, especially in the areas of food production and medicine.
Abstract This paper explains that, while the developing world has become one of the fastest growing markets for genetically modified crops (GMO crops), the vast majority of biotech crops are grown in the United States and other developed countries. The author believes that biotechnology, which increases the yield of existing land, may be the only way to save our valuable wilderness in the future. The paper relates that the realm of medicine and science, far more than the realm of food, is where one would expect to see strange, chimerical advances being made as history progresses towards the age of science fiction.
Table of Contents
Why Biotechnology?
Genetic Modification in the Food Production Industries
Biotechnology and the New Revolution in Medicine
Biotechnology in Warfare
Further Speculative Uses
Profits for the Developed World
Conclusion
From the Paper "So it would be safe to say that transgenic foods obviously play a huge role in modern agricultural production and consumption practices. Those who fear for the future in terms of genetically altered foodstuffs and medicines might do well to notice that such a future is with us today. Currently, over 50 types of genetically altered plants, passed through the extensive screening procedures instituted by the American Federal Government, are being widely produced and consumed throughout the world. The reasons farmers choose to plant genetically engineered crops is related to the reasons why consumers often unknowingly prefer them. These transgenic crops are often healthier plants (requiring less herbicides, pesticides, anti-fungal sprays, and so forth) and may have more appeasing, appetizing and abundant yields. All in all, this translates into higher profit for farmers and for the corporations that sell seed stock."
Abstract This essay explores the results of globalization on the food industry in regards to an increasing global population. It reviews issues such as GM foods, biotechnology, and over/under consumption in analyzing how a growing global community might sustain itself in the future. Also, it discusses the cutting out of small time farmers in light of biotechnology.
The essay concludes that a reassessment of globalization needs to be done in order to sustain civilization.
From the Paper "In a rapidly developing community such as ours, where economic growth and higher standards of living are replacing the worries of daily existence with goals of material success, our continuation in the direction of bigger and better things has never been doubted. Technology has been a major player in this trend, touching on our lives in nearly every way possible. When one reflects upon technology, one immediately thinks of cellular phones, the internet, automobiles, and various other non-essential aspects of life. While our technological evolution has been a topic of great debate, over whether such advances have led to a push towards laziness and social isolation, one must remember that technology reaches far beyond the spheres of social culture and into the realm of our basic needs as human beings. The infringement of technology on today's food production has, of late, been a rather moot subject, but is nonetheless one that must be addressed as an issue of major concern. Although globalization has often been seen as an advance for the bettering of the quality of life, this is one instance that might prove to be quite the opposite."
Abstract This paper examines how the biotechnology sector is one of the most research and development-intensive and capital-focused industries in the world. It confronts the problems facing the industry, proposes solutions, and provides viable alternatives. A specific comparison is made between the United States and the European Union, including ethical considerations and consumer perceptions.
Outline
Executive Summary
Biotechnology Market Analysis
Assumption
Key Biotech Sectors
History of the Biotech Industry - An EU Perspective
Current Industry Context - Global Basis
Key Markets
Outlook
Alternatives
Recommendation
Appendices
From the Paper "Agricultural biotechnology applications, primarily Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), have been widely accepted in the US. Conversely, in the EU, conflict rages on regarding the genetic engineering or hormonal growth and enhancement in food sources. Recently, several French farmers were charged with the of destruction of private property for destroying test fields from neighboring farmers for fear of the modified seeds spreading and tainting their own crops.23 Biotech applications including pharmaceutical, bio-warfare prevention, genetic malfunction and detection of abnormal activity and correction through re-engineering of cellular level laboratory creations and manipulated organisms is still in alignment with some of the US sentiment and most EU denizens as long as it does not include stem-cell research."
Abstract The paper defines biotechnology as the application of technology, especially genetics, to industrial or manufacturing aspects of life sciences. The paper describes the history of this industry and its global successes. The paper discusses how biotechnology promises to feed the world, reduce environmental harm and expand agricultural markets and production possibilities. The paper concludes that probable judgment on the acceptability of biotech products by consumers will still have to be rendered on this vastly-untried field.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
History
Market Structure, Income Statement and Economic Efforts
Forecast and Conclusion
From the Paper "Technology is the application of a scientific method and scientific knowledge to industrial or commercial objectives (Hand 2002). Biotechnology is the application of technology, especially genetics, to industrial or manufacturing aspects of life sciences. Biotechnological applications include the production of drugs, synthetic hormones and bulk foodstuffs; the bio-conversion of organic waste; and the use of genetically altered bacteria. Because it possesses intensive investment in research and development, a crucial role for knowledge capital in creating value, and high growth opportunities, biotechnology is classified as high-technology (Hand)."
Abstract This paper takes macroeconomic's view of the biotechnology industry by showing how the industry is currently made up of several small and medium sized firms along with few large concerns. The author indicates how the industry has been growing steadily for almost a decade and how it is making significant profits even when the economy on the whole is faced with a recession-like situation.
From the Paper "As the biotechnology industry is rapidly expands it has been attracting attention of both the government and the investors. Many firms have entered the field though there are only a handful of large multi-million dollar firms. The industry has been engaged mainly in the research and development of biotechnology products including several drugs and vaccines, which are based on biomedical research. Biotechnology is fast becoming the center of attention as scientists and researchers are taking a keen interest in this field. The government has also shown keen interest in the development of this industry but with biotechnology thousands of protests have also emerged."
Abstract This paper explores the concept of evolution from a biotechnological point of view and the ongoing discussion amongst scholars. It looks at the article - Playing God in the Garden by Michael Pollan and explains why the epitomises the discussion of this topic.
From the Paper "Some might say that human beings are, in large part, an arrogant species. Perhaps, they would suggest, we carry a general air of self-righteousness with respect to our relationship with the earth. It is a mien that evolves as we do. Our constantly developing sense of self, as well as the abilities to reason, implement social behavior and conduct intelligent thought processes, contributes directly to the superiority that we feel both as individuals and as a collective civilization. Whether this feeling of superiority is justified or not is a debate best left to another forum, however, the assumption of its credence has had a historically far-reaching effect on the world, perhaps an effect greater than any genuine substantiation to that assumption could engender. As a whole, we have taken the autonomy of global domination upon ourselves, and, rather than appealing to the practice of natural selection, we force the surrounding environments and species into an involuntary adaptation to our needs. As such, human evolution, and the demand it creates, affects change, or evolution in those environments and species. In the pursuit of our own survival, we have altered, and in some cases disturbed, the natural process of evolution in the plant and animal kingdoms in order to meet our own needs. Thusly, it can be deduced that a good majority of the unnatural evolution of certain environments and species can be directly attributed to the evolution of humanity. This is of crucial import when considering particular examples of natural response to human tampering as discussed in our text. In his account, "Playing God In the Garden", Michael Pollan provides insight to Steven Jay Gould's discussion on the definition of evolution, "What Does the Dreaded "E" Word Mean, Anyway?" by directly applying the questions of human evolution's predictability, directionality and, essentially, its relevance to its surrounding world."
Abstract This paper addresses the topic of business law and why a knowledge of business law is essential in working in the modern business environment. This paper serves as an applied knowledge paper, indicating that the paper shall first address business law in the workplace and then provide a case study focusing on why it is essential to incorporate an understanding of business law into business strategies. This paper also refers to the source "Business Law" (11th Edition) by Mallor (2000). The second half of this paper demonstrates exactly why business law is essential in industry through investigating the issue of property ownership, intellectual property, and patents in the biotechnology industry. A court case involving Amgen Inc. and Transkaryotiuc Therapies, Inc. (TKT) is used to clarify the issue.
Abstract The paper shows that biotechnology is a growing part of the pharmaceutical world. It examines environmental threats and opportunities in the neurobiology and endocrine disorder segment. The paper looks at competition among manufacturers, as well as political and ethical considerations.
From the Paper "Biotechnology Industry-Environmental Threats and Opportunities Profile: Neurobiology and Endocrine Disorder Segment
Currently, the biotechnology industry is controlled by a few big global as well as American companies. This is about to change."
Abstract This paper argues that, due to Egypt's need for export earnings, its ever-increasing population, and its expertise in agriculture, the country should further invest in research and development, with an emphasis on R&D that leads to producing genetically modified crops. It explains that, despite Egypt's having limited financial resources, increased investment in biotechnological research and development will not be a waste of these resources, as the return on that investment will be substantial.
From the Paper "Innovation is the ability to manage knowledge, as embodied in technology, in a creative way" ("United Nations"). The terms technology, knowledge and innovation are interrelated. Technological discoveries are derived from knowledge and result in innovation which then exploited to increase productivity and enhance competitiveness in the global market. Among the more significant innovations derived from knowledge, produced by research and technology, is the field of biotechnology. David R. Walwyn, a BSc chemical engineering, who has participated in several biotechnology policies and strategy initiatives, defines biotechnology in his book Biotechnologies, as "a body of techniques that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use." Biotechnology contributes to several life sectors, including health, food, water treatment and agriculture. Agricultural biotechnology, nowadays, is adopted in the majority of countries, particularly developing ones, due to its ability to produce transgenic seeds with modified traits that are resistant to viruses, insects, drought and salinity. Edgar J. DaSilva, Elias Baydon, a professor of Biology in American University in Beirut, and Adnan Badran, president of Philadelphia University in Jordan, stress the significance of biotechnology to developing countries in the Electronic Journal of Biotechnology. As they write, "biotechnology has become a source of economic development and social progress."
This brief paper examines the impending opportunities for smaller biotech companies to crack open the door and compete against the global pharmaceutical giants that are currently the major players in the industry.
Abstract This paper focuses on the biotech industry which is currently controlled by several big global companies and the fact that this is about to change. Patents on nearly $40 billion in drugs manufactured by the large pharmaceutical companies are set to expire which should open the door for smaller companies to help medicate the world. The writer's vision is for smaller companies to secure a place in an international growth market, to receive approval by various government agencies, to prove the efficacy of innovations and more importantly to solve some of the world's ills which can be alleviated by biotechnological products. This paper includes a statistical graph detailing biotech industry threats and opportunities.
Topics covered in this report include:
Vision Statement
Mission Statement
Competition
Political
Ecological
Energy
Economic
Spirit/Ethics
International
Technology
Social
Conclusions and Statistics About Threats and Opportunities for a New Venture
Citations
From the Paper "As long as there is no human genome project underway, there is little government interference. However, the American companies claim that the FDA is much too slow, compared to overseas regulatory agencies, to approve new drugs. For this reason, many of the companies are either buying, being bought by, or creating partnerships with overseas companies in order to sell their drugs where restrictions are not as tight as in the U.S. One major problem that the industry faces is the high cost to the consumer. Congress has a number of bills about medical costs."
Abstract This paper highlights the major statistics regarding biotechnology and the agricultural industry. It then examines governmental and organizational involvement in biotechnology, both locally and internationally. The paper focuses on biotechnology issues as they relate to food safety, food labeling and guidelines for genetically modified foods.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Biotechnology and Nutrition
Statistics
Definitions
Governmental Agencies
Food Labeling
From the Paper "The bottom line consideration is one between scientists and those who make public policy and the unknown variable of the long term health risks of consuming genetically modified foods (Underwood, 2003). As Greger (2000) points out, however, there is often a disparity between what consumers consider important information and what scientists have to offer. Underwood (2003) states the solution is to develop a sense of trust by having scientists and governmental agencies admit the unknowns and risk elements, thus allowing individuals, states or countries to weigh the benefits against the risks for themselves and make an informed decision."
