Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are crops whose genetic material has been scientifically modified. The document lists several potential disadvantages of GMOs, including harm to other organisms from unintended effects, cross-pollination with traditional crops making organic crops hard to identify, and the spread of resistant "super weeds" and pests. It also notes concerns about health problems, environmental damage, corporate control of the food system, and discrepancies in information about risks and benefits.

1. GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMSGMOBY MARIBETH A. BELGABSED 1C

2. ANTI GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMINTRODUCTIONDefinition of Genetically Modified Crops (GMOs)Before I go more in depth about the pros and cons of genetically modified crops, let me first give a definition of what genetically modified crops are. Genetically modified crops (often abbreviated as GMOs) are simply crops, whose genetical material has been modified. There are two ways to do this:Traditionalselection and breeding (much like breeding animals),Modern, scientific modification of the crops. In this article, my strengths and weaknesses of genetically modified crops list will deal with the second, the scientific effects and applications.

3. PROVE THAT GMO IS DISADVANTAGESHarm to other organisms. For example genes and their effect included in a crop may turn out to be poisonous to insects (monarch butterfly poisoned by GMO corns).Cross-pollination with traditional, organic plants. Cross pollination can occur at quite large distances. New genes may also be included in the offspring of the traditional, organic crops miles away. This makes it difficult to distinguish which crop field is organic, and which is not, posing a problem to the proper labeling of non-GMO food products.

4. Spread of new, more resistant "super weedsSpread of new, more resistant "super pests".Major trading countries that obtain most of the benefit from the production and trade of genetically modified crops. This might cause more geopolitical conflicts.New trade, tariff and quota issues may arise between countries, regions.Critics say GMOs may cause health problems.As the USA is the biggest producer of GMO crops, their exports may rouse more anti-American feeling, due to “Americanization” worldwide.

5. Possible damages to the environment.Possible greed of GMO manufacturing firms.Unharmonized test-, and safety standards around the world.GMOs are made because it is possible to make them, not because consumers feel their need.Possible creation of new kinds of weapons; genetic food and beverage weapons.Additional costs of labeling whether products are GMOs or not. This might increase costs of foods.Unforeseen risks and dangers due to the complexity of nature.

6. Widening corporate size gaps between food producing giants and smaller ones. This might cause a consolidation in the market: fewer competitors increase the risk of oligopolies, which might increase food prices. Larger companies might have more political power. They might be able to influence safety and health standards (example: less stringent regulations, standards and requirements).Activists’ increased ability to boycott and influence food market, food retailing, and food prices.

7. Allergies may become more intense, and also, new allergy types may develop.Discrepancies in information flow. GMO producers stress the benefits, but are reluctant to talk about risks and dangers.

8. MY CONCLUSION