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Genetically Modified Organisms Labeling
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Genetically Modified Organisms Labeling
The living organisms whose genetic material i.e., DNA is maneuvered artificially in the laboratory through the process of genetic engineering is known as a Genetically Modified Organism (GMO). In other words, the genetic material of animals, plants, viruses and bacteria is combined through traditional crossbreeding mechanisms that do not occur in nature (Non-GMO Project, 2019). The most exclusive reason behind GMOs is to develop such plants who could withstand the forthright implementation of herbicides or the production of an insecticide. However, new technologies offer much more than this primitive cause; developing desired characteristics and taste in the plants.
Labeling of GMOs has always been a central debate in biological world. Estimations indicate that approximately 64 countries require genetic materials to be labeled however Canada and USA are two prominent exceptions yet. In my view if genetically modified food differs from the other non- genetically modified counterparts, it must be labeled as “genetically engineered”, “genetically modified” or “bioengineered” because consumers must be aware of the products that they are consuming. Labeling is irrefutably significant act to address the differences that GMO possesses form its non- genetically modified counterparts (Non-GMO Project, 2019).
An example that I would like to quote stands by this case in the most justifiable manner. For instance, if canola beans are engineered genetically and it is found that oil obtained from these beans is enriched more with lauric acid content as compared to the oil obtained from simple canola beans, it must be labeled as “laurate canola oil” (FDA, 2019). In this way, consumers would be fully knowledgeable about the products they are using which might affect the extent of their consumption.
References
Labeling of Foods Derived From Genetically Engineered Plants (2019). Food and Drug Administration Authority (FDA). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/food/food-genetically-engineered-plants/labeling-foods-derived-genetically-engineered-plants
GMO facts (2019). Non GMO Project. Retrieved from https://www.nongmoproject.org/gmo-facts/
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