Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
Abstract
This paper is focused on the increasing use of genetically modified seeds and foods in our
society. Three articles were utilized as resources to cite opinions, legal implications, and
environmental impacts. The paper identifies that the use of genetically modified foods is on the
rise, as is consumer concern with these foods. The Food Industry defends that genetically
modified foods are safe and no different than non-modified foods. Critics claim that there is not
enough research or easily available information. This paper also explores the legal actions taken
by one company against its customers; a move that is uncommon in the agriculture industry.
With the agriculture industry continuing to grow and evolve to meet global demands, the
industry must maintain a safe and transparent environment. Many critics of genetically modified
foods dont believe there has been enough long term research to say, definitively, that it is safe.
Others note past environmental impacts left by companies like Monsanto as reasons not to trust
the source of these genetically modified foods. Barlett and Steele(2008), writing about
Monsantos Nitro plant, state that, as for the Nitro plants waste, some was burned in
incinerators, some dumped in landfills or storm drains, some allowed to run into streams.(694)
It should be noted that most of these cases are from the 1960s and 70s, an era just taking hold
of the impacts manufacturing was having on the environment. While I believe that these impacts
and practices are bad for the environment and the people in it, I also understand that business
practices have evolved over time. Pollution wasnt near as much of a consideration during the
industrial age as it is today, and still today, there is considerable apprehension from some toward
enacting impactful environmental laws. We have to decide if it is reasonable to judge a company
on its actions from a different time.
Though genetically modified food doesnt sound enticing or appetizing, it is becoming
more common place and necessary. As our population grows and our resources shrink, we need
to either conserve or find alternatives; and according to the F.D.A. there is no significant
difference nor evidence to support a health detriment when comparing modified and nonmodified foods. It is consumer choice as to which you prefer, so long as you can differentiate the
two. What is the priority? Is it personal health or environmental health? Is it a financial or ethical
decision? You ask yourself the same questions you would ask yourself if choosing to shop at a
big box store verses a mom and pop store. Ultimately, time will let us know if it is more, or less
healthy, safer, or worse for the environment.
Barlett D. L., Steele J. B., (2008). Monsantos Harvest of Fear. Marilyn Moller (Ed),
Everyones An Author, with Readings, (pp.683-704). New York, NY. W.W.
Norton and Company, Inc.
Monsanto Corporation, (2013). Why Does Monsanto Sue Farmers Who Save Seeds?
Marilyn Moller (Ed)Everyones An Author, with Readings, (pp.875-879). New York, NY.
W.W. Norton and Company, Inc.
Zinczenko D. (2002) Dont Blame the Eater. Op-ed New York Times. Marilyn Moller (Ed),
They Say, I Say (pp.241-243) (3rd Edition). New York, NY. W.W. Norton and Company,
Inc.