The Effects of GMO: Good or Bad?
All For GMO
Bacillus thuringiensis, BT, protein was discovered in bacteria that is frequently used by farmers to control insect pests. American sweet corn farmers have benefited in breeding and biotechnology. “BT protein protects the sweet corn from certain damaging insects” (Monsanto 2013). “Genetically modified sweet corn with BT protein reduces insecticide by 85%, fuel and energy use and carbon dioxide emissions” (Monsanto 2013). Farmers like to grow BT corn because they don’t have to drive their tractors across the field as often to apply insecticide. They can also grow healthy plants with fewer insecticide sprays and it produces nutritious, fresh and flavorful corn.
Although, BT is a chemical, it is not poisonous to humans. It contains plasmid that produces the certain protein crystals that are only toxic to insects. The only way it can be harmful to humans is if it is eaten. It breaks down in the environment and under the ultraviolet light of the sun. Because of this, it poses no threat to humans. “BT has not been shown to have any chronic toxicity or any carcinogenic effects. There is also no indication that BT causes reproductive effects or birth defects in humans” (O’Callaghan 2000).
“Upon investigation, it was found that BT contained carbohydrates and preservatives which have been implicated in food allergy (O’Callaghan 2000). Only two incidents have been reported to the environmental protection agency (EPA) and in both cases, they had previous health issues and food allergies. By breeding BT, farmers save a lot of money. Gmo corn can also be used as an alternative source of feed for cattle, pigs, and chickens. Because hay is so expensive, they use the gmo corn. It can also be used for fuel.
These genetically altered foods have been considered safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “An Iowa State University study showed that without the altering forces of biotechnology, global prices would be 10 percent higher for soybeans and 6 percent
Bacillus thuringiensis, BT, protein was discovered in bacteria that is frequently used by farmers to control insect pests. American sweet corn farmers have benefited in breeding and biotechnology. “BT protein protects the sweet corn from certain damaging insects” (Monsanto 2013). “Genetically modified sweet corn with BT protein reduces insecticide by 85%, fuel and energy use and carbon dioxide emissions” (Monsanto 2013). Farmers like to grow BT corn because they don’t have to drive their tractors across the field as often to apply insecticide. They can also grow healthy plants with fewer insecticide sprays and it produces nutritious, fresh and flavorful corn.
Although, BT is a chemical, it is not poisonous to humans. It contains plasmid that produces the certain protein crystals that are only toxic to insects. The only way it can be harmful to humans is if it is eaten. It breaks down in the environment and under the ultraviolet light of the sun. Because of this, it poses no threat to humans. “BT has not been shown to have any chronic toxicity or any carcinogenic effects. There is also no indication that BT causes reproductive effects or birth defects in humans” (O’Callaghan 2000).
“Upon investigation, it was found that BT contained carbohydrates and preservatives which have been implicated in food allergy (O’Callaghan 2000). Only two incidents have been reported to the environmental protection agency (EPA) and in both cases, they had previous health issues and food allergies. By breeding BT, farmers save a lot of money. Gmo corn can also be used as an alternative source of feed for cattle, pigs, and chickens. Because hay is so expensive, they use the gmo corn. It can also be used for fuel.
These genetically altered foods have been considered safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “An Iowa State University study showed that without the altering forces of biotechnology, global prices would be 10 percent higher for soybeans and 6 percent
Cited: Leon, Melissa (2013).” Nine Things You Should Know About Genetically Modified Organisms”, http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/03/10/nine-things-you-should-know-about-genetically-modified-organisms.html. (October 13, 2013) The Monsanto Company (2002-2013). “Sweet Corn Grown a Better Way”, http://www.monsanto.com/products/Pages/seminis-performance-series-sweet-corn.aspx. (October 13, 2013) The JNT Company (2012). “Genetically-Engineered Sweet Corn – Is It Safe?”, http://www.bestfoodfacts.org/food-for-thought/GE_Sweet_Corn_is_it_safe. (October 14, 2013) Dennis, Melissa (2013). “All For GMOs”. (October 16, 2013)