Genetically Modified Organisms and its Effect on Human Nutrition

It may be related or unrelated plants and animals where the genes are artificially forced into. These genes may come from different places including; viruses, human, bacteria, animal and even plants. Its main importance is to produce the desired traits and production of desired products. The process of re-engineering the normal functioning of any species has its consequences and effects. It has been acknowledged at different levels in society and everyday life. These traits might be; longer lifespan, resistance to any disease or infection and also change in the flavor and color of the species. Research has now shown that almost 75% of the processed food being sold is genetically modified. GMO has both the dangers and benefits of use. Hence the science in use must be critically and carefully be evaluated to avoid poor outcomes and negative side effects.

Genetically modifies organisms are those organisms whose gene element has been genetically engineered hence causing an alteration in the functioning of the species afterward. This includes the modification of food makes it grow faster than normally and traditionally growth of food. This increased productivity is helpful in feeding a large population within a short period of time with more food. This is significant especially is drought areas, poor climatic conditions and places with poor soil competence to support agriculture. The seeds for such growth might be expensive but this reduces the cost of production as the plant grows, it becomes resistant to pests and insects. Some foods are rich in nutrients and minerals also. Hence if it’s discovered that the foods genetically modified may lead to food allergy, it may cause closure of biotechnology organizations.

Thus this will affect the development of science thus poor living standards. Decreased nutritional value Another problem related to GMO in the food I believe the is the decreased nutritional value. Naturally, human species eat to add nutrients to the body for proper body functioning. This includes the proper intake of vitamins, carbohydrates, starch and proteins among others. For example, science exposes us to learn that plants use CO2 for its productivity while humans take in oxygen which is normally purified and excreted from plants. Thus this can also affect the breathing system as the oxygen being taken in is not purified at 100% level. New genes in plants, therefore, affect the metabolism of the plant causing it to produce too many toxins due to stressed response to the different mutations.

Resistance to antibiotics My other suggestion of the nutrition problem caused by a genetic modification in food is the resistance to antibiotics. The health sector has identified the increased level of bacteria in the human body which causes it to be resistant to antibiotics. Conclusion In my own point of view, a genetically modified organism has led to the standardization of the living status. Food has become plenty and can be accessible by many. There is the ability to feed a lot of people in a population and still have extra left for future use. Some foods genetically engineered upon research, it shows they are more nutrient, flavored and taste better. This alone makes people opt for processed and engineered food.

It will also lead to increased toxicity in my body which is harmful to normal body functioning Recommendation I suggest that before commercializing of the foods, a proper safety assessment should be done to determine the quality of use of the product. The food should be free from harmful elements that cause infections. Geneticists must always be informed of the latest biotechnology to use thus this increases productivity. They should have enough experience and knowledge in their area of professionalism. References "Artificial Genes”. Nature. 304 (5922): 184–87 Constantine, F. ; Lacy, E. "Introduction of a rabbit β-globin gene into the mouse germ line". Nature. 5 Hanahan, D. ; Wagner, E. F. ; Palmiter, R. D. Nature Biotechnology. Roger Segelken for the Cornell Chronicle. Mary 14, 1987. Biologists Invent Gun for Shooting Cells with DNA Issue available as pdf download here [2], p.