Genetically Modified Foods Argumentative Essay

The controversial issue of genetically modified foods, commonly known as GM’s, has only gained the attention of millions, since it became a prominent and highly debated global issue. Genetically modified foods are created when the genes of an organism are engineered and modified to create a new or enhanced version of that organism. The process of using different genes from different sources to genetically modify foods led to public outcry and sometimes, praise. People in support of genetically modified foods claims it will enhance the quality of the food, improve the food’s resistance to pests and other harmful elements, lower food costs, and also increase food security for the future. However, those opposed to genetically modified foods claim
“I think the risks and benefits are overstated by both sides of the debate,” states Dr. Lucy Carter. (University of Queensland) By stating this quote, Dr. Carter is critiquing how both sides convey their arguments to each other. Furthermore, it shows that Dr. Carter believes that genetically modified crops are still a benefit to society in the long term. The article further states that there is no evidence to prove that genetically modified foods poses a threat to humans or the environment and that Australian states should not ban production of genetically modified foods. “You can’t easily create a hybrid that is both strong enough to withstand natural environmental conditions,” stated Dr. Carter. (University of Queensland) When Dr. Carter states this, she is saying that risks such as super weeds are not possible and should not be viewed as a significant “GM” threat. Therefore, because Australian states still use genetically modified foods and because studies in Australia show that benefits of genetically modified crops outweigh the risks, there should be an increasing role of genetically modified crops in the global food supply in order to solve society’s