-
One of the major concerns the world is currently facing is that of ensuring enough food for all people as the world population has been on the rise. It is considered by some that one feasible solution to this problem is utilising genetic modification technology in food production. I completely disagree with this idea for health and environmental reasons.
Firstly, genetically modified crops can be a threat to local ecosystems. Many crops are made more resistant to diseases, insects and severe weather conditions through genetic alteration, which could cause them to become stronger than most species in the area. As a result, the ecosystem could be thrown out of balance, leading to the loss of some local species. In Japan, for instance, genetically modified tomatoes spread to other areas through seed dispersal and deprive the natural plants of their habitat.
Secondly, the health impact of GM foods has still been unclear. Because genetic engineering is relatively a new area of research, its effect on the human body after consumption remains a cause for concern. For this reason, more rigorous research is required before we are able to rely on GM products on a larger scale. A good example of this is the corn produced using GM technology in France, which was proven to be carcinogenic by a number of studies.
To conclude , I disagree with the idea of using GM food as a viable solution to the issue of food shortage due to population growth unless its safety and environmental effects are tested thoroughly. It is crucial that we carefully consider the risks that might arise when utilising technology
