genetic tech
As we enter the new millennium we are waking up to the realization that almost every aspect of our lives is becoming affected by genetic biotechnology. Most of all, we have been caught unprepared for the avalanche of genetically engineered foodstuffs and other products arriving in our shops, chemists and hospitals. Considering that genetically engineered foods have been around for such a short time, there are surely enough examples to show that we must call a halt to such dangerous experimentation with the code of life. Some of the ailments caused by genetically manufactured foods are simple as basic allergies and can even range up to life threatening anaphylactic shock. Many foodstuffs, ingredients, and processing substances are already subject to genetic engineering; many more are on the way. The need for a moratorium is urgent. The introduction of genetically engineered foods amounts to a dangerous global experiment by giant transnational biotechnology companies who control large segments of the world's food supply, including food patents, seed companies and other aspects of the food chain. Short-term commercial gain is being placed before the health and safety of the whole population.
2001 .Are GMOs Essential for Effective Sustainable Agriculture In a Hungry World? Natural Law Party. 6 Mar. Genetic engineering is the process of artificially tampering with human blueprints. Through genetic engineering, scientists insert the gene of one organism into another in an effort to replicate characteristics in the receiving organism (Encarta). So, for example, genetic engineers have added genes from the flounder to tomatoes in an attempt to give tomatoes a longer shelf life. Yet some biotechnology companies are also using genetic engineering to produce crops that can withstand increased amounts of pesticides, and often pesticides sold by those very same companies (Connors 1). Farmers have used crossbreeding-interbreeding between two varieties of the same or similar species-to improve crops and animals for thousands of years. Genetic engineering though, offers a radical new twist on this theme. In crossbreeding, farmers do not stray far between species. Broccoli can be crossbred with cauliflower, for example, but not an eggplant. Additionally, no sane individual would ever try to crossbreed a tomato with a fish. Yet through genetic engineering, these natural barriers have been blown away-with, some scientists say, unpredictable results (Encarta). FAO Report Reveals GM Crops Not Needed to Feed the World. Natural Law Party. 6 Mar. 2001 Levy, Stuart B. "The Challenge of Antibiotic Resistance." Scientific American. 6 Mar. 2001 Will the Development of Herbicide-Resistant Crops Result in Increased Herbicide Use by Farmers? Crop and Food Research. 6 Mar. 2001 . 2001 .
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Approximate Word count = 2551
Approximate Pages = 10 (250 words per page double spaced)
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