GMO

What are GMOs

A genetically-modified organism is a living organism (GMO), such as a plant or animal, whose genes were
manipulated and altered in the laboratory to produce a desirable outcome.

Why were they developed

Scientists and genetic engineers find GMOs as alternative solutions to produce the needed food to feed
the world.
Primarily, according to the document published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the
United Nations, the reasons for manipulating the genes of major food crops include, among others
1. increase the resistance of the crops to pathogens and parasites; and
2. increase the resistance of crops to environmental factors, such as drought and global warming

How are they produced

Genetically-modified organisms are produced through a series, i.e. multistage, of processes.

Scientists first identify what trait they want that plant to have, such as resistance to drought, herbicides,
or insects. Then, they find an organism (plant, animal, or microorganism) that already has that trait
within its genes.

What are the risks

1. Alterations in human health due to the chemicals consumed
2. Damage in biodiversity due to imbalance of variety of species
3. Poor accessibility to farmers as the seeds of GMO plants need to be purchased