Negative Impacts of Genetically Modified Crops on Human Health |

ABSTRACT:

Biotechnologyoffers a large variety of benefits and risks. It has increased crop yield bymaking plants less vulnerable to drought, frost, insects, and viruses. It hasenabled plants to compete more effectively against weeds for soil nutrients. Insome cases, it has also enhanced the quality and nutrition of foods. However,the use of biotechnology has also raised concerns about its potential risks tothe health of people. Genetic modification involves altering an organism's DNA.This can be done by altering an existing section of DNA, or by adding a newgene altogether. A gene is a code that governs the appearance andcharacteristics of an organism. A number of commercialized, geneticallyengineered varieties of canola, cotton, maize and soybean, were created usingthis technology. This technology has also introduced herbicide and pesttolerance in crops. The Gene technology has also decreased the costs of growingand farming, due to the reduced use of pesticides. It has also enhanced theresistance to pests, viruses etc. Gene transfer is used to modify the physicaland chemical composition and nutritional value of food. Gene transfer inanimals will play a part in boundless possibilities of improving qualitative andquantitative traits. On the other hand, negative effects of gene technology onanimals and human health should be considered. The present article focuses onthe negative impacts of genetically modified food on human health.