Argumentative Essay On Genetically Modified Food

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For years, the health and safety of genetically modified foods have been debated and researched by scientists, but the question still stands: should genetically modified foods be allowed for consumption? The process of genetic modification involves inserting a gene from bacteria or a virus into an organism where it would normally not be found. The purpose is to alter the genetic code in plants and animals to make them more productive or resistant to pests or farming techniques. Genetically modified organisms, more commonly known as GMOs, have been a controversial topic of debate for a number of reasons. The ethics behind genetically modified foods come into question due to an abundance of short and long-term effects from the process, many…show more content…
Modified crops and their pesticides cause pollution to air, water, and soil. The main function of herbicides and pesticides is to kill unwanted plants and insects, although the toxicity of it is proving to be further damaging to the natural environment as well as human health and development. Despite some manufacturers claims, the heavy use of toxic pesticides and herbicides genetically modified seeds require has only increased, according to a 2012 study (1). Cross-pollination between GMO and non-GMO crops is also common, as it has the power to destroy natural plant varieties in the wild. Glyphosate- the most commonly used herbicides in plants-is an antibiotic, which can destroy soil quality and thus impair the plant's nutritional value as well. This noxious substance has also been shown to negatively impact the gut bacteria of humans. The pesticides found in GMOs have been connected with an increased risk of certain types of cancer, neurological diseases, like Parkinson's, and a number of other consequential health concerns. There are additional related health problems, including reproductive issues, autism, and even heart disease linked to the additives found in genetically modified organisms. With so many potentially life-threatening health risks already identified, who knows what other negative effects GMOs may have on the human

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