Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO's)
A genetically modified organism is any organism whose genetic material is altered through genetic engineering techniques. Most plant's genetic material is altered because scientists want to introduce a new trait that would be beneficial to the plant. For example, a new trait might be established in order for crops to be resistant to a certain pest or disease and survive.
GMO's have become popular in recent times. In 2010, 10% of croplands were planted with genetically modified crops. About 18 million farmers grew 54% of genetically modified crops in developing countries and in the US, soybeans, cotton and corn were genetically modified varieties.
Although GMO's are widely used in agriculture nowadays, there are still some concerns about using these organisms:
1) GMO's haven't been tested enough and are relatively new
2) Animals feeding off GMO products have various health problems such as tumors
3) GMO's can give people allergies and other medical problems
GMO's can be avoided by:
- Reading labels (look for the NON-GMO project label)
- Avoid buying processed foods
- Buying organic foods when possible
GMO's have become popular in recent times. In 2010, 10% of croplands were planted with genetically modified crops. About 18 million farmers grew 54% of genetically modified crops in developing countries and in the US, soybeans, cotton and corn were genetically modified varieties.
Although GMO's are widely used in agriculture nowadays, there are still some concerns about using these organisms:
1) GMO's haven't been tested enough and are relatively new
2) Animals feeding off GMO products have various health problems such as tumors
3) GMO's can give people allergies and other medical problems
GMO's can be avoided by:
- Reading labels (look for the NON-GMO project label)
- Avoid buying processed foods
- Buying organic foods when possible