Genetically modified foods, or GMOs, are foods or living organisms that have been genetically manipulated in a laboratory through the process of genetic engineering. The genetically manipulated organisms that are produced through genetic engineering are organisms that do not occur in nature or result from traditional methods of crossbreeding. Genetic engineering has evolved and technology now allows for a transfer of genes between organisms, allowing for the production of a better, modified organism. The transfer takes place after the ideal or more desired genome has been identified. Once identified, scientists are able to simply remove the desired genome from the native or original organism and place it into the target plant. After the new gene has been introduced to the target plant, the target plant can be bred to pass the new trait to future generation of plants. When these organisms are genetically modified, the characteristics of the plant changes. This method of genetically modifying organisms, specifically …show more content…
With over 80% of all processed foods in the United States being genetically modified, it is imperative that the risks and benefits of consuming genetically modified foods are weighed out. The potential risks include: environmental issues and the effects of growing genetically modified crops, health risks for those consuming the genetically modified food, and the economic effects of growing genetically modified foods. While there are potential risks associated with genetically modified foods, there are also potential benefits to creating genetically modified foods. These potential benefits include: increasing agricultural production, improving food quality and the availability of food, and increasing the health and well being of people consuming