Module 6 Discussion Post GMO Foods 100% correct

Genetically Modified Foods When talking about genetically modified, or engineered foods, there is a large controversy over whether or not it is safe to eat, regulated, and if there are any benefits to it. You have a large group of people who say they should stop because it is unhealthy, and can cause many medical complications, and on the other hand you have a large group of people who suggest that GM foods are safer for you, and should be continued, as well as expanded. There are many advantages to GM foods out there. Genetically modified foods are created with an increased shelf life compared to normally bred foods. Because of this we are able to send these foods to remote areas, as well as countries with food shortages, or areas that cannot grow their own foods. Scientists use genetic modifications to increase specific nutrients such as protein and calcium, which people might not be able to get from other food sources. They’re also able to genetically eliminate seeds being inside our foods, such as our watermelons and grapes (Colbert, T. n.d.). I believe that the consumers are over-reacting to the consuming of genetically modified foods. The FDA reviews these items and they are required to meet the same safety requirements that are in place for foods that are derived from traditionally grown plants. It’s important to understand that we have also been modifying and engineering plants for thousands of years, just without all the new equipment and advertisement that is out there now, such as with different colored corn, apples, and even strawberries. These modifications are really here to just either increase or decrease specific traits in foods, such as decreasing the enzyme in apples that causes it to brown from cuts or bruising (Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. n.d.). After reading up on the pros and the cons, and the safety of genetically modified foods, I don’t believe I will be changing how I purchase my foods, or what I eat. So far I’ve never been concerned with checking between what has been or has not been modified, and I haven’t had a problem yet. I believe that they should mark what has been modified, for those who are concerned, but otherwise I feel completely safe eating these food items