What are Genetically Modified Foods?

What are genetically modified foods? Genetically modified foods are foods that are not completely natural, having been altered in some way to boost certain characteristics, such as vitamins or size. In the past, rice, flour, corn, soybean, cotton seed oil, tomatoes, and many other products have gone through this process. Animals too, have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering to provide an amplified version of a product. For instance, pigs have been genetically altered to better produce omega-3 fatty acids. Scientists have been able to modify the DNA of pigs so that absorb plant phosphorus better and thus decrease the phosphorus in their manure by 60%. Some people believe that genetically modifying food should not be allowed, as it concerns issues of safety and may alter the ecology of the thing being modified, and can drastically change an ecosystem. Also controversy has arisen by the question of whether the animals being modified are subject to intellectual property law or not. Others are in favor of genetically modified foods, saying that it can solve our world hunger problems by providing food for the world’s ever-growing population. Currently, the United States is the largest producer and consumer of genetically modified foods. Recently however, China has been turning more and more towards it, namely because of their lack of adequate rice production for their very large population. Regardless of what genetically modified foods are, there are benefits and disadvantages, and this blog will provide both views on the topic.