Genes are the inherited blueprints of cells. They tell the cells when to reproduce, when to die and what type of proteins to make. Genes are modified when the gene from one species is inserted in another, in a laboratory setting. Presently, many of these genetic modifications are in plants. This gene transfer between plants does happen naturally but at very low levels. Some claim that the gene modifications that occur in a lab would occur naturally given time, but this is very highly unlikely.

Genetically modified (GM) plants have the potential to provide a lot of food to many people who live in areas where traditional (unmodified) plants don’t grow. However opponents of GM plants claim that these crops have not been tested and we do not know anything about the short, and especially, the long-term effects on individuals and the environment.

One long-term effect many be genetic pollution. Genetic pollution is the idea that genes engineered into plants and animals can be randomly transferred to other species. There is a real fear that the introduction of GM organisms into complex ecosystems may spread genes into plants that were not intended recipients (think of how easily pollen spreads in the springtime) creating a cascade of effects that we will not be able to control.

There is a practical application for these GM plant foods. They can be grown in regions native plants cannot and can withstand dangers like pests and droughts better than the indigenous flora. Proponents claim utilizing GM technology may be one of the best ways to feed our growing world population.

Opponents claim that too little is known about the short and long term effects of GM plants. There is concern that GM plants have not been studied extensively enough to rule out the risk of possible toxic effects. These plants are new to all of us. The human species has never had to figure out how to digest some of the proteins made by GM plants, and the implications are not well understood.

Becoming more educated about where your food comes from and choosing organic when possible is one way to avoid consuming GM foods.