Critically analyse advantages and disadvantages of GM foodcrops

GM foodcrops are the one whose genetical material has been modified either by traditional selection and breeding or by modern, scientific modification of the crops(genetic engineering).

Various Advantages are-

1.Pest resistance-Less pesticides is needed to be used due to insect resistant plants such as B.t. corn.

2.Herbicides tolerance-Farmers often need to spray large quantity of herbicides which is an expensive process.GM crops require one application of weed-killer,thus reducing the production cost.

3.Cold tolerance and Drought tolerance-Development of crops that can grow in extreme climate

4.Nutrition-Reduction of sickness and illness as GMO foods are more nutritious

5.High yield-Decrease in food prices due to lower cost and higher yield

There are many disadvantages which are-

1.Unintended harm to other organism as the genes and their effect included in a crop may turn out to be poisonous to insects

2.Insects will become resistant to B.t. or other crops that have been genetically modified to produce their own pesticides

3.Crop plants engineered for herbicide tolerance and weeds will cross-breed,resulting in the transfer of the herbicide tolerant gene to weeds making it “super weeds”

4.Introducing a gene into a plant may create a new allergen or cause an allergic reaction.

Though there are many pros and cons regarding the GM foods,the government must proceed with caution to avoid causing unintended harm to human health and the environment.