Genetically modified food has divided experts for years. Some say it is necessary to feed a growing global population while others object to GM food on the grounds that it is unethical and poses health risks for both humans and the natural environment.
Although many consumers are wary about eating GM products, food producers have continued to seek new ways to increase profits and reduce wastage. As a result many everyday products now contain GM ingredients. And GM food may be more prevalent than you think – for example, around 90% of the corn grown in the United States is genetically modified.
So what exactly does Genetically Modified mean? Genetically modified foods are produced by making changes to the DNA structure of food crops in order to give specific benefits. Examples include apples that are modified so they do not brown as quickly, and potato crops that are modified to increase their resistant to viruses. It was in the year 1946 when scientists first discovered, that the transfer of DNA between organisms was a possible task. In 1983, an antibiotic resistant tobacco plant was produced which is believed to be first ever genetically modified plant.
It can be difficult to spot which products on sale are genetically modified, particularly as a large amount of animal feed contains GM ingredients. Even though the eggs you eat might not have been modified themselves, the chicken that laid them may be eating genetically modified feed.
If you want to avoid GM ingredients, the best thing to do is look for labels that state that a product is ‘GM Free’. In India, the central government has made it mandatory to label all genetically modified foods sold in a packaged form.