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The Pros And Cons Of Genetically Modified Organisms

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Genetically Modified Organisms or GMOs are organisms (primarily plants), whose genomes have been altered by genetic engineering. This does not include selective breeding and cross pollination. Genetic engineers cut, splice, and alter DNA in order to change specific traits within a plant or animal. This editing of DNA produces organisms like vitamin enriched rice, cows that produce allergy free milk, and herbicide resistant cotton (ISAAA). In recent years, there has been a large national and international resistance to the use and sale of these products. One may see “Non-GMO” stickers or stamps on foods they purchase in the supermarket. Some consider the Non-GMO movement to be very progressive and ethical, however it is simply a movement that …show more content…

There is a wide range of possibilities that become of editing DNA. A current example of its use is an increased resistance to predatory insects. Because of this, less pesticide is used on crops like corn, cotton, and eggplants. Producers spend less on insecticide, and food is now safer to eat by the consumer (Bryant). In times of need, genetically modified organisms can solve a number of solutions. Supposing another devastating drought were to occur in America, our corn crop would be affected the least. This is because 93% of current corn yields in The United States is genetically modified. These new traits that are prevalent include drought resistance. A large portion of said corn is also largely herbicide resistant, insect resistant, and lastly has increased levels of Lysine, an essential amino acid (Nucio). As far as corn is concerned, not only is it now a more durable crop, but a healthier one at that. In 1995, a seemingly useless genetic modification took place in Australia on a carnation flower. Scientists isolated a gene called “N-lauroylethanolamine” and discovered that, it regulated the senescence of carnations. These flowers would now look prettier for a longer period of time, and increased the amount of revenue generated by farmers. The reason why this is so important, is

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