Genetic Modified Crops (GMC): A Flight or a Blight

Genetic modification, a technology that allows insertion of another DNA into the genome (the inheritable structure of an organism) that results in production of either plants or organisms having way more superior genetic material than their parent or former host. Genetic modification in plants gives new or different characteristics which can include changing the way in which they grow in rough conditions or being resistant to disease as compared to the other types which were more prone to disease’s.

At present there are several GM crops used as food sources. As of now there are no GM animals approved for use as food, but a GM salmon has been proposed for FDA approval. In instances, the product is directly consumed as food, but in most of cases, crops that have been genetically modified are sold as commodities, which are further processed into food ingredients. Some of them include cornstarch, corn syrup, corn oil, soybean oil, canola oil, or granulated sugar.

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Regardless of it advantages like higher crop yield, reduced farm cost, increased farm profit, and higher nutrition. They are also prone to some possible setbacks and downsides which are not yet conclusive, Allergies, other anti-nutritional factors in foods, resistance to antibiotics, cancer, and stress upon the natural process of the environment, are some of them. As to which cotton is the only GM crop currently allowed for cultivation in India.

Although it’s risk and issues are not to be neglected, GM crops can also have a certain level of scope in the near future, with the provided technology, time and dedication. Bringing forth a better GM plant or crop that is able to blend accordingly to the nature of the environment and at the same time alleviating all the chances and risks there are in consuming them.

Shuliba
bilisangtam713@gmail.com
Mass communication student
Nagaland University, Lumami