You most likely consume genetically modified food on a daily basis and don’t even realize it. GMOs are present in as much as 80% of conventional processed food (nongmoproject). What does GMO stand for? GMO stands for genetically modified organism. What are GMOs? GMOs are produced through biotechnology and genetic engineering, which involves modification to the genetic structure of an organism to produce desired traits (Watts). The major increase of GMOs being incorporated into our diets has made the controversy surrounding them a popular contemporary issue. Many people are concerned about the potential risks involving GMOs, while others regard them a crowning scientific achievement bound to provide cheap nourishment to mankind. There are many benefits that come along with genetically modified organisms. Crops can be engineered to ward off pests, which in turn results in the lessened use of pesticides that can be harmful to through run-off. Half the cotton grown …show more content…
GMOs are usually engineered to withstand herbicides, which are sprayed on them to kill weeds, however, weeds are becoming more and more resistant to these herbicides. Seventy-two percent of US GMO crops are engineered to tolerate a certain type of herbicide, but the weeds that these herbicides used to kill are coming back bigger and stronger, creating herbicide-resistant “superweeds” that require greater quantities of more toxic pesticides to eradicate (GMO INSIDE). Other than the environmental damage GMOs could pose a threat to humans by creating new allergies. There’s evidence that the new substances engineered into some GMO foods can mimic potent, potentially life-threatening allergens (GMO INSIDE). These are just a couple of risks GMOs pose to humans and environment. There are solutions and ideas that people are pushing to help educate consumers about