Genetic Engineering in Agriculture

Written by: Caroline Kim

May 1, 2022

In contemporary society, genetic engineering, genetic alterations done to organisms, is a practice that has sustained its role in fields such as agriculture. It is often implemented in foods such as corn, papaya, and soy. There are many debates and concerns over it, however, as some see it as more harmful than helpful, and others think differently. An author from Montana State University states, “The current global food system is not sustainable.1 A rapidly increasing world population, climate change, and crop pests such as insects and weeds present a significant challenge to the global food system. The field of dietetics practices at the intersection of nutrition, health, and sustainability. As such, it is critical to understand the current state of the global food system and the practices and technologies that influence it” (Chamberlin).

A benefit of genetic engineering includes the production of stronger, more nutritious foods. For example, corn may be altered to better withstand harsh weather conditions, and include healthier nutrition. According to an article, “Genes can also be manipulated in trees so that they absorb more CO2 and reduce the threat of global warming”(Rinkesh, Various Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering for Cloning and Transformation). Various sources agree on the fact that genetic modification of foods can often increase resistance/get rid of disease, increase production, and boost growth rates. Other positive factors of genetic engineering in foods include prolonged shelf life. Additionally, genetically modified crops are carefully monitored by the FDA, EPA, and USDA (Chamberlin).

However, genetic engineering also has its set of negative impacts, “For instance, a plant can be modified that it needs less water, but that would make it intolerant to direct sunlight” (Rinkesh, Various Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering for Cloning and Transformation). Without proper considerations, diversity may also be at risk. Though environmental health is something that may be improved with genetic engineering, if this is not the objective of a certain alteration, it may not be considered, and the environmental health could actually be put at risk. Another concern is a concept called “gene escape” in which genes could be transferred among similar species- “Trouble could arise if, for instance, herbicide resistant genes find way into weeds (Rinkesh, “What Is Genetic Engineering and Pros and Cons of Genetically Modified Foods).

As a whole, genetic modifications in agriculture present several benefits as well as concerns, and but the topic is important to be well informed on, especially considering much of it includes foods we consume.

Sources:

Rinkesh. “Top 25 Brutal Environmental Concerns That You Desperately Need to Know.” Conserve Energy Future, 10 May 2020, https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/top-25-environmental-concerns.php.

Rinkesh. “Various Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering for Cloning and Transformation.” Conserve Energy Future, 29 June 2020, https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/pros-and-cons-of-genetic-engineering.php.

Rinkesh. “What Is Genetic Engineering and Pros and Cons of Genetically Modified Foods.” Conserve Energy Future, 3 Apr. 2017, https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/what-is-genetic-engineering.php.

Chamberlin, Morgan. “The Environmental Impact of Genetically Modified Crops.” Montana State University: Mountains and Minds, https://www.montana.edu/hhd/graduate/dietetics/blog_posts/GMO_environment.html#:~:text=Research%20indicates%20that%20GM%20crop,growth%20of%20herbicide%20resistant%20weeds.&text=In%20addition%2C%20there%20is%20concern,negatively%20impact%20the%20agriculture%20ecosystem.