Nutritionally Enhanced Crops
What Are They?
Nutritionally enhanced crops very simply are crops with better nutritional value now than when they started. These crops are not as designed for profit like most genetically modified crops, but instead focus on bettering the nutrition of people. These crops carry extra essential vitamins and minerals making them very effective in aiding those who do not get enough nutrition. Genetically modified foods are part of our daily diet, so those with enhanced nutrition can be extremely beneficial to our everyday lives.
As expected these crops are commercially available and are consumed often by average people. One specific example of an early genetically enhanced food being Golden Rice, was modified to produce carotene to aid those with a vitamin A deficiency. Nutritionally enhanced crops are probably one of the most influential types of crops, and one of the most beneficial to the average person.
Complications
Complications revolving around nutritionally enhanced crops are mainly ethical ideas, causing protests. Since these crops are intended for consumption, some people are afraid of the unknown health risks that may be associated with genetic modification. People often connect genetically modified foods with unforeseen allergies, which is frightening to many people.
Regular rice (left) in comparison to Golden Rice (right).
Tomatoes are one of the most common genetically enhanced crops. (Image Citation 54)
