Running head: IMPACT OF Genetically Modified Organisms
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Impact of Genetically Modified Organisms
Teddy Alan Johnson
DeVry University
Dr. Robert Clark
5/24/2016
IMPACT OF Genetically Modied Organisms 2
Genetically modified organisms or GMOs are organisms that are altered at the
DNA or Genetic level, which is genetic engineering. Genetic engineering has provided
several new combination of plants, animals, viral and bacterial genes that do not occur
in nature or by means of natural crossbreeding/pollination. We have a large growing
population that will continue to grow in exponential numbers, so the increasing need for
higher yields in crops is becoming pertinent. This desire gave birth to genetic
engineering. GMO Proponents have opposed that the technique is highly mutagenic
and can lead to unforeseen changes in the DNA that can cause allergic or toxic
reactions to the consumer. Nonetheless, the adoption of Genetically Modified
Organisms has been praised and criticized with equal measure. Its impact has been felt
in all sectors such as; social, cultural, political, economic and environmental sectors of
the divide.
Social Aspect.
Currently the opponents are winning the battle but blocking implementation of
GMOs in to major food sources Their platform is based on the belief and so supported
facts that bioengineered food can be harmful and can lead to health complications.
American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM) has been requested that health
care providers to back non-GMO diets to all patients since studies showing organ
damage, immune system disorders, accelerated aging and infertility. Also they argue
than GMOs cross pollinate with other crops of the same species and therefore can
travel, thus it would be impossible to contain it or possibly clean up the contaminated
gene pool.
IMPACT OF Genetically Modied Organisms 3
However, Proponents of GMOs have argued that medicine benefits through the
modification of organisms to produce lifesaving drugs such as insulin and even
increased agricultural yields. In US for example farmers have benefited from first
generation GM crops which exhibited enhanced traits such as increased tolerance to
insects, herbicides and even environmental stress. Scientist such as Kevin Folta
created websites through which they write to correct misinformation and educate the
