Recombinant DNA technology or genetic engineering, the process behind the production of these, is seen as a potential tool for enhancing food quality and crop yield in the field of food and agriculture. 2. Allergic Reactions According to research by the Brown University, resent genetically modified foods can pose significant allergy risks to people. Herbicides and pesticides are used less often. Upon knowing all the mentioned disadvantages of genetically modified foods and crops not only to human health but in the environment as well, the decision is all up to you. The primary advantage of genetically modified foods is that crop yields become more consistent and productive, allowing more people to be fed. Although some genetically modified foods have already been approved and passed to be safe as their traditional counterparts, their continued production is still very controversial. Spoon University reports that deeper colors in foods changes how the brain perceives what is being eaten. Genes go into different plant species. One example: dozens of weed species are already resistant to atrazine. Thus, by eating such foods with toxins, the possibility of ingesting the toxin and being harmed by it may happen. Hence the production of food that is said to be “Genetically Modified,” like the ones previously mentioned. Interactions at the cellular level could create unforeseen complications to future crop growth where even the benefits of genetically modified foods may not outweigh the problems that they cause. 1. For example, if researchers want to make a particular organism produce a nutrient that it naturally isn’t capable of producing, they will look for another organism that can produce that specific nutrient. This is because the mere process of recombinant DNA technology is already prone to a mutation that can lead to unpredictable changes in the DNA and their proteins produced. a GMO canola oil with more lauric acid than traditional canola oil will be labeled “laurate canola oil”. Such may result from toxins being produced when there is a damage in the “Gene of Interest” during the insertion process. In the continuing battle for hunger, food production has gotten more technologically improved through the years. Genetic migrations are known to occur. This is worth noting when it comes to certain insects, such as butterflies, that are not actually dangerous to crops. 6. Over 50% of the seed producers that have created the GMO foods market prohibit any independent research on the final crops as an effort to protect their profits. Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Food | Livestrong.com As alluded to earlier, genetically modified foods are created by inserting foreign genes into an organism. So what does this mean? Ever heard of a tomato that is resistant to rotting? Some genetically modified foods may present a carcinogen exposure risk. As a result, the soil becomes void of all necessary nutrients. Woolly Mammoth Clone Project: Can It Be Resurrected? There are legal issues involved with growing genetically modified foods.. Farmers that do grow GMO crops could also face liabilities for letting seeds go to other fields or allowing cross-pollination to occur. Crops that are genetically modified will create seeds that are genetically modified. When crop yields become predictable, then the food supply becomes predictable at the same time. The advantages and disadvantages of genetically modified foods can spark a bitter debate. Farmers growing genetically modified foods have a greater legal liability.. Crops that are genetically … Although there are no conclusive links, Brown University concluded that changes to foods on a genetic level combine proteins that humans are not used to consuming. One particular example is the Bt Corn (Bacillus Thuringensis Corn), which is widely known for its pest controlling ability. 5. Crops share fields with other plants, including weeds. Brighter foods are associated with better nutrition and improved flavors. Knowing more about genetically modified foods allows us to do just that. 5. A GM food may also increase its production of … *. This is because the pests that these toxins used to deter might eventually develop resistance towards them. GMO foods give us the opportunity to limit food waste, especially in the developing world, so that hunger can be reduced and potentially eliminated. Arguably, every food carries along with its associated health benefits and risks. This gives us the ability to reduce the presence of food deserts around the world, providing a greater population with a well-rounded nutritional opportunity that may not have existed in the past. Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Foods To Humans Allergic reaction. […] 6 Major Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Foods | Biology Explorer. Furthermore, the introduction of genetically modified organisms can eventually disrupt the natural process of gene flow. Deeper red colors make food seem to be sweeter, even if it is not. All Rights Reserved. Bacillus thuringensis is a soil bacterium that has a gene that produces certain protein toxins that effectively destroy pests and insects, like larval caterpillars.