2. Genetic engineering
Genetic engineering is widely used in medicine, agriculture, and
environmental protection.
With the help of genetic engineering, it is possible to obtain various
medical preparations, speed up the growth of agricultural animals, get
bacteria that break down products that contaminate the environment.
3. What are genetically modified organisms?
Genetically modified organisms
(GMO) are organisms whose
genetic material has been
modified using genetic
engineering techniques.
4. Types of GMO in agriculture
In agriculture, genetic modification is mostly used for crops.
The aim in genetic modifications is to introduce a new trait to the
plant which does not occur naturally in the species, for example,
resistance to certain pests, diseases, or environmental conditions,
reduction of spoilage, or resistance to herbicide, or improving the
nutrient profile of the crop.
5. Genetically modified crops
Around 56 genetically modified agricultural crops are grown in over 34
countries in the world.
Scientists believe that the worlds GM crop plantations have reached 125
million hectares. In 2008, 63% of GM crops were herbicide resistant, 15%
of crops developed pesticides themselves and 22% of the crops had both
of these properties.
9. Genetically modified organisms in Europe
As of 2014 Spain has been the
largest producer of genetically
modified crops in Europe.
France, Germany, Austria,
Hungary, Greece, Luxembourg
and other European countries
have placed bans on the
cultivation and sale of GMOs.
10. Genetically modified crops in Latvia
Genetically modified plants are not grown in Latvia, but it is allowed to
distribute products recognized by European Union.
Various products that contain GM maize and soybean can be bought in
Latvian shops.
GM food control in Latvia is provided by the Food and Veterinary Institute.
12. This topic is becoming more and more important as the genetically
modified food spreads throughout the world.
Genetically modified foods contain new ingredients that have never
been in human food before and this fact causes many debates about
GMO impact on health and environment.
However the research on the impact of GMO is lacking that’s why
most of risks and benefits are only theories and are not proven.
13. Impact on environment
Genetic modification may cause
genetic contamination and the
uncontrolled spread of genes in
the environment resulting in
development of pest and weed-
resistant forms.
These new and resistant forms
can become a threat to
biodiversity because they will
overtake others.
14. Impact on health
The main risks to health:
1. Possible emergence of new allergens or toxic substances in food
2. Possible spread of antibiotic resistance genes in the human
microflora
3. Possible adverse effects on immune resistance
