GM foods will inevitably result in social changes on many different
levels. At a consumer level, new specialized crops will be available
at a lower price than ever before. Nutrition, an ever growing
concern in our society, will be easier to maintain for people of all
statuses. At a more global level, the innovation of the biotechnology companies will propel the United States economically and industrially. Under-developed countries will be able to receive far greater amounts of support than ever before with GM foods. It is crucial to support all regions of the world as its population continues to grow exponentially.
Citation 10.1
A GLOBAL IMPACT
ETHICAL ISSUES
There are ethical questions that arise when contemplating the use of GM foods. The GM food revolution is still in its infancy. A result of this is that their effects on human health, although suspected to be negligible, are not extensively studied. One possibility is that GM foods might contain allergens that were previously not present. For this reason, GM foods are strictly regulated and tested.
Citation 10.2
A hot and current
debate relating to
GM foods is the
question of whether
or not companies
should be required
to specially label
GM foods. Those for
the labeling of GM
foods argue that there are ethical and religious reasons for a customer to avoid GM foods, and that labeling is necessary for them to stay clear. Those against the labeling of GM foods argue that certified organic foods are already labeled, and that the labeling of GM foods would impose an unnecessary cost on all consumers.
Citation 10.3
LEGAL REGULATIONS
The United States
Department of
Agriculture closely
monitors the effect of GM
crops on humans and living
organisms. They also certify
organic crops and label them
as such.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency
very closely monitors the effects of GM foods
on our environment. They ensure that
biopesticides do not have any harmful,
long-term effects on the environment.
The United States Food
and Drug Administration
regulates the consumption
of GM foods. Generally, they
recognize that GM foods are safe.
If a crop is modified to express a
foreign gene, it is the FDA's authority
to vigorously test the crop before
approval.
Citation 10.4
Citation 10.5
Citation 10.6