Are Genetically Modified Foods Safe?
September 4, 2009
In accordance with a study conducted by FDA, it is revealed that, In USA over 80 % and 40 % of soybeans and corn are produced by genetics modification technique.
Modifying genetics of plants with an intention to make them more resistant against strong pesticides is one of the main reasons for popularity of genes modification technique.
Secondarily, farmers also use this technique to enhance the levels of nutrition and longevity of their yields. For instance, there subsist a number of crops that are known to comprise ample amounts of calcium that can possibly be genetically modified to trim down amount of oxalates produced by them.
Usually, oxalates act as a binding agent thus, making it unavailable for absorption in digestive system. Modifying genes of these crops facilitate better absorption of calcium from foods.
Despite of several studies and proved benefits, genetically modified foods have been a issue of debate among health experts and scientists regarding the safety and the threats they pose to wild life environment.
It is also an alleged area of concern among scientists that consumption of these modified foods assist in development of allergens unknowingly but the fact is that foods that are known as common allergens like peanuts are genetically modified to reduce the levels of allergic protein content which further assists in salvaging people who had unknown history of peanut allergy.
In United States of America, there are several governmental agencies like United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration and Environmental Protection Agency that are responsible for the regulation of genetically engineered harvests. These agencies also monitor health condition of plant, environmental issues and on top of all, safety of these foods.
The genetically modified seeds are initially well-researched and approved by United States Department of Agriculture before handing over to farmers for cultivation. Though, a number of scientists, environmentalists and health experts raise their voices against cultivation and distribution of genetically engineered food crops, the usage of these food stuff are backed up by studies conducted by governmental agencies and top scientists.
It is evident that improvisation of crops by this technique is intended to enhance the health condition of humans as well as to avert the unfortunate ailments like food allergies etc. and hence, can be taken in account for consumption.
Comments
Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.