For this class over the past week, I have intensively studied genetically modified organisms or more commonly known as GMOs. I learned that genetically modified seeds, in particular, are a cheaper alternative to regular seeds. I also learned about the farmers that are scammed out of money by the companies that make GMOs. The one field experience from this week that was very interesting was the farmer’s market. I was able to talk with vendors and farmers and interview them about their opinions on GMOs. I also supported them and bought a bunch of cookies and a smoothie! For this action project, I have to support my position about why I am against or in favor of GMOs.
Predict what the yield will be in 2030
1981* 69 + 107946 = 244635
I personally do not support GMOs because the companies that make the genetically modified seeds do not care about the farmers. One example of this is how companies respond to something called the “genetic drift.” This happens when genetically modified seeds blow from one farm area to someone else’s farm that does not use genetically modified seeds. The farmers that use the genetically modified seeds have signed a contract from the companies to use them. If someone is found to have the seeds on their farm “illegally” then they can get sued for a lot of money. “Not only is genetic drift impossible to prevent, inadequate regulation also fails to hold seed companies accountable for any resulting damages and ultimately puts the onus on farmers who have been the victims of contamination” (GMOs-Top five concerns for family farmers, n.d.). This quote shows the negative impact that GMOs have on farmers. It also shows that the big companies aren’t able to be held responsible for this, which allows them to continue harming others’ farms. Another reason I am against GMO foods is because the technology can cause superweeds. In turn, farmers use more toxic chemicals to try and get rid of them. One of these toxic chemicals is called glyphosate, which can contribute to plant diseases. “Between 1996 and 2011, U.S. herbicide use grew by 527 million pounds, mostly from glyphosate. There are now at least 14 species of glyphosate-resistant weeds throughout the country, and almost double that number worldwide” (GMOs-Top five concerns for family farmers, n.d.). This helps explain that GMO technology is more harmful than helpful because it makes weeds that should be easily destroyed by weed killers much more resilient, which can negatively impact agriculture. One experience from the farmers’ market that made an impression on me was the conversations that I had with the different farmers or vendors who were there. A common message that was shared was that they don’t support GMOs. They don’t support GMOs because of the companies’ control, and that they think it is unhealthy. This helped form my position on GMOs because it shows that the major GMO companies don’t have the consumers’ best interests at heart.
Some people believe that GMOs are valuable and should be used. This logic is based on the lack of health risks. “The vast bulk of reputable evidence currently shows that GM food is healthy and safe and that GM crop plants are productive and able to grow in places where non-GM crops die” (Rupp, 2014). This quote explains that GM food is actually beneficial and can be grown in many different places to increase food productivity. Even so, the upsides don’t outweigh the downsides. The absurd amount of power these companies have over the farmers who just want to have enough money to live is detrimental. In conclusion, GMOs should not be used to help take the stress and fear away from farmers and let them grow healthy crops without companies threatening to sue them if a seed accidentally ends up on their land.
Sources-
“10 Advantages and Disadvantages of GMOs.” FutureofWorking.com, 14 Jan. 2017, futureofworking.com/10-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-gmos/.
Kenner, Robert, et al. Food, Inc.
“GMOs - Top Five Concerns for Family Farmers.” Farm Aid, 2 May 2019, www.farmaid.org/issues/gmos/gmos-top-5-concerns-for-family-farmers/.
Rupp, Rebecca. “Rebecca Rupp: I'm Pro-GMO and Here's Why.” Culture, National Geographic, 3 May 2021, www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/rebecca-rupp-im-pro-gmo-and-heres-why.
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