Corn is the most genetically modified crop in the U.S.
GMOs, or genetically modified organisms, are plants, animals and microorganisms altered by scientists. GMOs are a mix of different species that do not occur naturally but exist by means of genetic engineering. The modifications are done to create supernatural genes that are unlike natural organisms, and they originally were created to provide a better, more efficient crop. However, there are various reasons that their production is considered bad.
Genetic Pollution
Once GMOs are released into an environment, it is almost impossible to retract the species. Consider a genetically modified seed. If it interbreeds with a non-genetically modified seed, there is no telling what the outcome can be, as the future of crop growth cannot be determined with certainty.
Mutations
A mutation occurs when GMOs come into contact with non-GMOs--the genetic makeup of the two create a new species. Scientists have not yet figured out the end result of such an occurrence. The effects can affect environmental and human health. According to Physicians and Scientists for Responsible Application of Science and Technology (PSRAST), these new genes potentially can enter into human genes and the environment, creating irreversible damage.
Labeling
Since 2004, labeling has been mandatory across the European Union, due in large part to European environmentalists who clamored for labeling of products with GMOs in supermarkets. However, labeling in many countries across the world is not mandatory, such as in the United States. According to The Center for Food Safety, about 70 percent of processed foods found in U.S. supermarkets contain genetically modified ingredients.
Allergens
A concern of GMO production is the incidence of new allergies, especially with no labeling of GMO foods. Methods are available to test for allergies of non-GMO foods; however, with the introduction of a new mixture of genes, there are no reliable modes of testing for allergies. According to ActionBioscience.org, it is impossible to distinguish if a genetically modified crop is an allergen before it is released into the food chain, having potentially detrimental effects to the whole food cycle.
Considerations
GMO farming does not recognize the values of traditional farming. While consumers rely on local agriculture for food in the developing world, small farms cannot compete with large farm production that use genetically modified crops. Traditional farming practices have existed for thousands of years of tried-and-tested methods, whereas GMO farming has not.
