What are the Pros and Cons of Genetically Engineered Food?
Genetically engineered food, also known as Genetically Modified or GM food, is food that has been altered at the genetic level to produce a better tasting, longer lasting, or more resistant product. Vegetables and other crops are the most common type of genetically engineered food. Corn, for example, has been altered to be naturally insect-resistant, while tomatoes have been modified to slow down the rotting process. Genetically engineered food has its pros and cons, which include: PROS • Genetically engineered food is cost effective. Because it is designed to resist pests and prosper under non-optimal conditions, it can also help people in areas where regular crops would not prosper. Large savings in production may lead to financial gain and help fight poverty. • Genetically engineered food can be naturally pest-resistant and thus reduce the need for additional chemicals, pesticides, and other dangerous additives. • Genetically engineered food may help reduce world hunger, at least in
