GM Foods - Harmful or Helpful?

GM food opens up a plethora of problems, some of which are unknown to the present society. How much are we willing to risk for GM food? I strongly feel that GM food is more harmful than helpful.

The key argument behind GM food is that it solves the world’s malnutrition problem. Impoverished people in 3rd world countries are not getting nutrition. However, this is assuming that this problem arises from the lack of nutritious food. Research has shown that it takes 30 times as much energy and food to raise an American, as compared to a Pakistani. Despite this blatant wastage of resources, America is still better developed. This proves that it is not the lack of nutritious food, but the poor food distribution, as well as the variant economic conditions that causes malnutrition. What purpose does GM food serve if it all goes into the mouths of the American consumers?

The multitude of unanswered questions only leaves consumers in worry. Is GM food safe? There are already many life-threatening allergies around the world, and by toying with genes, it can lead to severe complications. One example was how a proposal to incorporate genes from Brazil nuts into soybeans was abandoned for fear of unexpected allergies. Clearly, there is huge risk involved. Would you risk developing nasty fevers and ghastly spots? This possibility is very real. Now you might argue that with caution, it will remain a possibility. This brings me to my next point, who is responsible for GM foods?

Extensive testing of GM food is required to ensure that GM food is safe. Are you consumers prepared to bear this cost? This burden will inevitably fall on you in the form of more expensive food. Also, the public has to be educated about GM food, before they can make the right choice. Again, who will absorb this? Such financial burden serves no purpose.

In conclusion, GM food cannot satisfactorily solve the global malnutrition problem, and yet, it gives rise to so many problems, and even more which will arise in the future. GM food is more harmful than helpful.