Research the issue of genetically modified foods, and then write an essay to be read by your peers in which you argue either for or against their use. Support your position with evidence.

Genetically modified (GM) foods contain at least one ingredient coming from a plant with an altered genetic composition.16 Genetic modification, also known as genetic engineering, often introduces new, desirable characteristics to plants, such as greater resistance to pests. Many U.S. crops are grown using genetically engineered seeds, including a large share of the soybean, corn, cotton and canola crop. As a result, the majority of processed foods in the U.S. contain at least one genetically modified ingredient.

There

genetically modified food controversies are disputes over the use of foods and other goods derived from genetically modified crops instead of conventional crops, and other uses of genetic engineering in food production. the disputes involve consumers, farmers, biotechnology companies, governmental regulators, non-governmental organizations, and scientists. the key areas of controversy related to genetically modified food (gm food or gmo food) are whether such food should be labeled, the role of government regulators, the objectivity of scientific research and publication, the effect of genetically modified crops on health and the environment, the effect on pesticide resistance, the impact of such crops for farmers, and the role of the crops in feeding the world population. in addition, products derived from gmo organisms play a role in the production of ethanol fuels and pharmaceuticals.

specific concerns include mixing of genetically modified and non-genetically modified products in the food supply,effects of gmos on the environment,the rigor of the regulatory process,and consolidation of control of the food supply in companies that make and sell gmos. advocacy groups such as the center for food safety, organic consumers association, union of concerned scientists, and greenpeace say risks have not been adequately identified and managed, and have questioned the objectivity of regulatory authorities.

the safety assessment of genetically engineered food products by regulatory bodies starts with an evaluation of whether or not the food is substantially equivalent to non-genetically engineered counterparts that are already deemed fit for human consumption. no reports of ill effects have been documented in the human population from genetically modified food.there is a scientific consensus that currently available food derived from gm crops poses no greater risk to human health than conventional food, but that each gm food needs to be tested on a case-by-case basis before introduction. nonetheless, members of the public are much less likely than scientists to perceive gm foods as safe.the legal and regulatory status of gm foods varies by country, with some nations banning or restricting them, and others permitting them with widely differing degrees of regulation.



you