preview

Genetically Modified Organisms Is Bad Essay

Decent Essays

Genetically Modified Organisms A GMO (genetically modified organism) is an organism, such as a plant, animal or bacterium, which has had its’ genetic material altered. The first genetically modified DNA organism was created in 1974 by Stanley Cohen, Annie Chang and Herbert Boyer. Eight years later, the first transgenic plant was produced. In 2015, over 90 percent of soy, cotton, canola, corn, and sugar beets sold in the North America have been genetically engineered. Currently, the use of genetically modified ingredients is legal in Canada. There is no law that requires products containing genetically modified organisms to be labelled and disclosed to customers. Due to its negative health effects, environmental impact, and infringement …show more content…

Firstly, genetically modified seeds permanently contaminate the environment through cross pollination. It is the nature of plants to cross pollinate and spread their genes, but this means the harmful genes of genetically modified organisms are also being spread. Even organic food cannot be deemed 100% free of genetically modified organisms, because they are potentially contaminated. GMOs are essentially ‘contagious’ but we are unable to quarantine them. This makes it difficult to avoid GMOs by means of an organic diet, and increases the need for labelling. Also, genetically modified seeds do not increase crop yields. Contrary to the belief of many Canadians, they instead work against ending world hunger. The International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development report stated that “GMO crop yields were highly variable and in some cases, yields declined. Whereas sustainable non-GMO agricultural methods used in developing countries have conclusively resulted in yield increases of 79% and higher.” (IAASTD, 2009, p.8) Genetically modified organisms serve no beneficial purpose to our environment. Genetically modified organisms serve no beneficial purpose to our

Get Access