Genetically Modified Organisms By Patrick Hurley Genetically Modified

Genetically Modified Organisms By Patrick Hurley

Genetically Modified Organisms n Definition: A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism whose genetic structure has been altered by incorporating a gene that will express a desirable trait, often termed gene splicing.

Examples n n Pesticide Resistant Rape Plants- Allows crop to resist pesticide exposure and survive. Sweet Corn- Produces a poison that kills harmful insects. Golden Rice- Contains more A-Vitamins Long-lasting Tomatoes- Does not rot as quickly (first available GMO 1994).

Where are GMO’s grown? n 4 countries produce 99% of GMOs USA- 68% Argentina- 22% Canada- 6% China- 3%

Europe’s GMOs Since June 2002 Europe has allowed 3 GMO Crops: Soy Beans- Resistant to crop spray Sweet Corn- Produce insecticides Rape Plants- Does not produce pollen

Fun Fact n In 2001 52. 6 million Ha were under cultivation for GMOs. This includes food and non-food crops.

Safety n n n There is no evidence to support that GMOs are dangerous for human consumption Test feeds have been conducted on animals It is estimated that Americans eat 65% GMO food

Pros n n n Use less spray Grow larger crops Environment no longer exposed to large amounts of chemicals Gives starving people more nutrition in a staple crop (rice) Lengthier transport time

Cons n n Pest could become resistant May harm beneficial insects (Bt Corn) Fear that poor countries are becoming too dependent on Western culture Fear that large companies will own the rights to all the good crops

Questions? Sources www. ohioline. osu. edu www. bionetonline. org