The Pros and Cons of Genetically Modified Crops

GM (genetic modification) is a process in which an organism's DNA is changed. The genes are often inserted into the genome of the organism using viruses or bacterium. This can produce proteins that have new functions, which can be allergens or toxins. Changing a single gene can have unexpected consequences, such as increasing yields or making a plant resistant to disease. Similarly, genetic engineering can be used to improve the efficiency of food production systems.

Aside from the obvious benefit of reducing water and pesticide usage, GM plants can increase per-acre crop yields. They also can be engineered to tolerate herbicides and viruses. In the US, GM crops include corn, sugar beet, and alfalfa. In Colorado, the most common GM crops are corn and canola. The United States Department of Agriculture approves field release of most GM plants.

In recent years, GM has been used to create crops that are drought-tolerant, virus-resistant, and insect-resistant. Many Asian countries have not approved GM crops. In some cases, the GM crops are targeted for home consumption, and in others, they are for commercial purposes. In some regions, GM plants have increased yields by 30-80%. The increase is attributed to the ability of the GM plants to withstand the infestation of a common pest, the bollworm. In other areas, GM crops have decreased the use of wide-spectrum insecticides.

In addition to the benefits of GM crops, opponents have pointed to a handful of studies that they say show possible safety risks. These include a 1998 study that found that rats fed a GM potato suffered from immune system-related changes. However, reviewers have questioned the study's findings, and the Rowett Institute later retracted the report. In 2013, prominent anti-GM activist Mark Lynas switched his support to GM technology.

Other concerns have been raised over the possibility of the transfer of foreign DNA into the human body. A GM gene can settle in different locations, and may be incorporated into several copies of the genome. These genetic changes could pose a problem, and in addition, GM crops are prone to allergic reactions.

Other opponents say that GM foods are not safe to consume. One study showed that some rats died after eating a GM potato. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate GM foods. In some countries, such as Australia and Kenya, the government has banned GM foods, fearing that they could contribute to malnutrition.

While GM plants have improved agricultural productivity, proponents say they are also working to cure disease. For instance, a GM crop called Golden Rice is said to be able to deliver more vitamin A than spinach. This vitamin is essential for healthy eyesight and prevents blindness. It is estimated that one million people die each year from a deficiency of the vitamin. Moreover, GM animals have been developed to model human genetic diseases, allowing researchers to test novel therapies.

Genetic engineering can also be used to reduce allergenic potential of foods. In some countries, GM crops have been engineered to be able to tolerate insecticides and antibiotics.