A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism containing a transplanted gene.
An example is in the genetically modified salt tolerance in tomatoes. Plants like tomatoes couldn’t grow in salty conditions since this hypertonic soil water results the death of the plant however once the gene for salt tolerance was introduced in the tomato it now has the opportunity to be grown in saltier areas.
Benefits of GMO:
§ Increased yields particularly in regions of food shortage.
§ Yields of crops with specific dietary requirement such as vitamins and minerals.
§ Crops that won’t spoil so easily during storage.
§ Higher meat yields in genetically modified animals thus reducing hunger.
§ GM breeding is faster more specific and certain.
§ Plants are genetically modified to resist pests and extreme weather conditions which extends its survival.
Disadvantages and concerns of GMO:
§ Genetically modified animals and plants are considered un-natural and unsafe for human consumption.
§ There is a risk of the escape of 'genes' into the environment where they can be passed to other organisms with unknown effects. The genes could give an unnatural advantage for certain species over others.
§ There is a risk for allergies from the GM plants and animals.
§ It is worrisome that most of the food in the world could be controlled by a small number of corporations.
§ Decrease in biodiversity.
§ Gene transfers can be potentially harmful to animals
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