Although genetic modification is used with the intentions of improving the quality of crops and other various species, it has had a profound impact on the everyday lives of normal people in both positive and negative aspects. It is important to keep these differing viewpoints in mind when considering the credibility of genetic engineering.
Risks to Human Health
Many people fear the risk that genetically modified organisms may have unforeseen health risks and do not think that they are safe. It is argued that genetically modified food may have allergy-producing genes, and because genetically modified food is not labeled it is possible that someone may have a fatal allergic reaction. The Organic Consumers Association is one example of people who do not see genetic modification as safe and work to sell more organic foods made without genetic engineering. Although there are no evident risks to human health presently, it is possible that some may arise in the future.
Environmental Risks
Risks to the environment is another factor involved when considering genetically modified organisms. A major concern involves transgenes (engineered genes) being spread throughout the environment through reproduction. If a genetically modified organism reproduces with a wild one, it faces the risk of a transgene being spread throughout the environment. Herbicide use is also a risk; if organisms are herbicide resistant then more herbicides will be used. If this is the case then these toxic chemicals will be used more liberally, which can become an issue.
Use of herbicides and pesticides increases along with herbicide tolerant crops. (Image Citation 7)
Labeling of GM Foods
One of the most controversial issues with genetic modification is the labeling of products. Some people think that they have the right to know what food they are eating has been genetically modified, while some people do not care. Since some people associate possible health risks with genetic engineering they would like to know what foods are modified. It is also nearly impossible to tell if something is genetically modified by sight, so in order to efficiently know the difference a label would be required.
These two tomatoes may look the same, however one is genetically modified while the other is not. Without a label can you tell the difference? (Image Citations 8, 9)
Ethical and Legal Issues
The Organic Consumers Association does not approve of genetic modification. (Image Citation 11)