Genetically modified food Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Genetically modified food - Essay Example However, in the contemporary world, scientists have adopted complex measures by integrating the laboratory with breeding, and narrowing down to the building blocks of such attributes; the genes. As such, various methods of genetic modification, alteration, and improvement have developed organisms that are an improvement of the already existing organisms. The improvement is in terms of the rate of growth, resistance to more harsh conditions, and productivity. This has been integrated with food production, with the widespread of genetically modified foods. As much as such developments promote the wellbeing of individuals through reduction of food insecurity and increasing the nutrient density and shelf life of food, many fail to understand the ramifications that such technology holds. Different individuals hold different opinions regarding the genetically modified foods, with some arguing for it, while others against it. However, genetically modified food should be forbidden because it can break the ecological balance. Genetic modifications, also known as â€Å"genetic engineering† involves a deeper meaning than the phrase sounds. With reference to the word engineering, Rifkin suggests that it involves the application of the principles of engineering in life’s genetic blueprints. Rifkin goes further to explain such engineering principles in his article, â€Å"The Bio Tech Century†, as predictable outcomes, efficiency, quality control, quantifiable measurement standards, and utility (Rifkin 2). As such, genetically modified foods are edible plants and animals whose DNA has been altered in terms of the genetic framework to favor a certain sequence, through genetic engineering. Such alterations could be geared towards producing foods that are resistant to pests, grow rapidly, or have an improved nutrient profile. On the other hand, ecology involves the scientific