What are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?
“A genetically modified organism is…” - 1 point
What is one advantage to genetic engineering in the breeding of organisms?
“One advantage of genetically engineering food is…” - 1 point
What is one disadvantage to genetic engineering in the breeding of organisms?
“One disadvantage of genetically engineering food is…” - 1 point
Do you believe GMOs should be made available for humans to eat?
“After reading and learning about GMOs, I do/do not believe that genetically modified foods should be available.” - 1 points
Provide evidence to support your opinion.
“Two pieces of evidence that support my opinion are…” - 4 points
Respond to two peers’ discussion posts. “Yes, I agree.” or “Good job.” will NOT earn you credit. Your comments should state what you agree or disagree with in their post, AND explain why
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally. This is often done to introduce desirable traits into the organism.
One advantage of genetically engineering food is that it can help increase crop yields. By introducing traits that make plants more resistant to pests or environmental stress, farmers can produce more food from the same amount of land.
One disadvantage of genetically engineering food is the potential for unintended consequences. There is a possibility that genetically modified organisms could have negative effects on the environment or human health that we are not yet aware of.
After reading and learning about GMOs, I do believe that genetically modified foods should be available. One piece of evidence to support this is that GMOs can help address the issue of food insecurity by increasing crop yields. Another piece of evidence is that GMOs have been scientifically proven to be safe for human consumption by numerous regulatory agencies.
In response to a peer’s discussion post, I agree with their opinion about GMOs being made available for humans to eat, and I believe this is because of the overwhelming scientific consensus that GMOs are safe for consumption. Additionally, I appreciate their thoughtful consideration of the benefits of GMOs in addressing food insecurity.