Some people think that genetically modified (GM) crops are a positive development. Other, however, argue that they are potentially dangerous.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
It is arguable whether the advantages of genetically modified (GM) crops outweigh the disadvantages.
Some people believe that laboratory-modified seed would bring many positive benefits in the future. Firstly, GM crops will provide a higher level of production which is in favour of satisfying the demand for more food due to the ever growing world population. Secondly, by adding vitamins, the food becomes more nutrient-rich and thus, after a meal you feel satiated. Moreover, genetically engineered plants are adaptive to the adverse weather conditions in some regions, which is a step to the solution of the global hunger problem.
On the other hand, people who oppose the widespread GM techniques claim that there might me a lot of potential dangers. They are concerned because scientists have not proved yet if gene modification is fully safe for people, and also if there will be long-term consequences of the environment and the wildlife. For instance, there is evidence that pollen could be spread by the wind to the GM-free plantations. As a result, people would not be sure of the quality and content of their products. Another aspect, people are being worried about is the chemical pollution from the products used on crops and if animals would be contaminated by eating GM crops and further constitute a danger for humans who consume fresh meat.
As a conclusion, I think that to address this issue people should raise awareness of the possible effects. More studies must be conducted on the long-term consequences of genetic modification in order any speculations to be avoided.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
It is arguable whether the advantages of genetically modified (GM) crops outweigh the disadvantages.
Some people believe that laboratory-modified seed would bring many positive benefits in the future. Firstly, GM crops will provide a higher level of production which is in favour of satisfying the demand for more food due to the ever growing world population. Secondly, by adding vitamins, the food becomes more nutrient-rich and thus, after a meal you feel satiated. Moreover, genetically engineered plants are adaptive to the adverse weather conditions in some regions, which is a step to the solution of the global hunger problem.
On the other hand, people who oppose the widespread GM techniques claim that there might me a lot of potential dangers. They are concerned because scientists have not proved yet if gene modification is fully safe for people, and also if there will be long-term consequences of the environment and the wildlife. For instance, there is evidence that pollen could be spread by the wind to the GM-free plantations. As a result, people would not be sure of the quality and content of their products. Another aspect, people are being worried about is the chemical pollution from the products used on crops and if animals would be contaminated by eating GM crops and further constitute a danger for humans who consume fresh meat.
As a conclusion, I think that to address this issue people should raise awareness of the possible effects. More studies must be conducted on the long-term consequences of genetic modification in order any speculations to be avoided.
