Tuesday, May 29, 2012


Genetically-Modified Foods



                As of late, foods that are grown in plants have been increasingly being altered in the genes of the organisms for general improvement in various areas. This has resulted in greater amounts, larger plants, changes in taste, and decreased necessity of pesticide use. This helps keep up with human consumption, reduces pesticides and is usually more common on factory farms. Organic foods, which are foods grown without pesticides or genetic engineering and are generally more expensive, so in many areas of the world, GM’d foods are often more popular, whether the consumer knows of its modification or not. This technology has been opposed by some who believe that the genetic modifications could possibly cause adverse effects in humans. Some also see the genetic alteration of plants morally ambiguous or wrong.

                Personally, I think that Genetic engineering of human foods is an important technology to be used. Those that wish to continue to purchase completely organic foods may, but many cannot afford that kind of expense. Genetic modification of food organisms should be improved so there is little to no potential of long-term adverse effects. Then we can use GMO’s much more and greatly reduce pesticides that are harmful to the planet and to the consumer.

1. Do you think we should grow genetically modified foods at all?
2. Would you rather purchase normal foods that may be altered, or more expensive, organically guaranteed foods?
3. Do you think that the morality of genetic engineering is relevant and can be used as an argument against it or not?

4 comments:

  1. Genetically modified foods have the power to feed the masses and end world hunger, if used correctly. Instead of feeding those who enter grocery stores, geneticallt modified foods should be sent into countries with widespread famine or disease. With GM foods, we can grow bigger, better, and in abundance. We have created this food to feed the masses and keep up with our consumption rates. Without, GM foods, we would not have seedless grapes or watermelons. My only concern is how these are being produced. They should be produced in a safe environment. Also, GM foods are good for the economy as well. These foods can bring in more revenue to countries who may not be as well of. GM foods should only be used for those in bad economic backgrounds or countries to fight famine and hunger, as well as better the economy. When we are helping those in need with GM foods, it is morally correct. Morals also need to cover who the foodstuffs are going to. I am not saying we should depend on GM foods, I am only stating that with GM foods, we can help pther people in need. Organic foods should be used in places where people can afford it. We should still use organic foods to support family farms. From a scientific standpoint, GM foods can provide people with what they need to survive.

    in Whole Foods, I always get worried about the price of organic foods. I know that my family relies on coupons for shopping. These coupons do not account for Organic foods. It would be an economic disaster for us if we were only able to rely on organically grown foods. GM foods have done a lot of good for people.

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  2. While i agree with Lisa i think that GMO's are not the best. they could end world hungry but people are greedy and would not grow for free. i also think that GMO's should not be used on fruits and vegetables that we eat the skin.

    i would rather purchase organic because they are all natural not made to have their own pesticide for example.

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  3. I would think it unreasonable to completely stop genetically engineering foods. However, I do agree that we should try to lessen the risks of affecting humans before using them more widespread. To be completely honest, I don't care which food I am eating as long as it takes good and is not crazily expensive. Which is why I mostly eat genetically engineered food. I don't really see morality being used as an argument, at least not a stong one when fought with the benefits of genetically modified foods.

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  4. Opinion/Reflection: I think genetically modified foods are a good choice in producing for the future and now. I think that the pros outweigh the cons of genetically modified foods. They can produce far greater masses of product, they reduce pesticide use, and they are cheaper for the average consumer to be able to purchase them fairly easily. Effects of using this method have been found, but as far as I know, the actual effects have been limited. I think that genetically modifying foods is the smart thing to do for the producer and the consumer. The producer uses less pesticides and although they make less money per product, they tend to draw in more consumers. The consumers spend less money per person and get larger bulks of products for less.

    Expansion: Referring to the question about morality, I do not think that it should even be used to argue the use of genetically modified foods. Throughout history, things have developed and taken over previous methods in various professions. This should stand true for genetically modified foods. It is not like genetically modifying a tomato is even close to speaking about morality issues like abortion. They are completely different issues. Yet, they both have to deal with the same thing, morality. Genetically modifying crops is moral, but even if one thinks that it isn't that should only be considered a mild con to using the method of farming.

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