More and more food processing companies are moving toward reducing the number of genetically-modified (GM) ingredients in their products as a result of consumer anger. Many consumers feel that GM products are unhealthy. What are some positive and negative aspects of GM products? Do you think food manufacturers should limit the use of GM ingredients in their products? Why, or why not?

With technological innovations come both beneficial and harmful effects. For example, by using gene modification scientists today can increase crop yields and raise larger cattle to feed the masses. However, while this technology provides an overall benefit, one must also consider its negative consequences. On the positive side, genetically-modified (GM) foods allow farmers to increase the output of their products. This has two beneficial outcomes for food processors: firstly, it allows the producers to increase their profits, which in turn reduces costs for the consumer; secondly, an increased crop yield or meatier cattle ensures that the population has ample food supplies. In Asia, for instance, scientists have been able to produce rice grains whose yield is four to five times greater than what had been the case before GM production. This means that as the population grows, food supplies are able to keep up with consumer demand. On the other hand, GM foods are a relatively new phenomenon whose long-term health effects have not had a chance to clearly manifest themselves. Many consumers believe that tampering with nature leads to illnesses; in fact, surveys indicate that many people relate the rise in global virus and cancer epidemics to the increased consumption of GM foods. They believe that hormone injections and other chemical and biological additives decrease one’s natural ability to fight diseases. Though this view is debatable, food manufacturers should pay attention to the opinions of their customers, who, in turn, should allow more time and research to present a clearer picture of the risks involved with GM foods. In conclusion, until more evidence is available that clearly demonstrates the negative effects of consuming GM foods, I believe these products serve a positive role as we witness a growing global population. As such, food producers should only limit these products’ use to the extent that they do not alienate consumers.