Genetically modified crops have recently shaped the world of food production. Global continues to benefit from increased food productivity and security. This has provided an opportunity to expand and grow worldwide economies. However, health threats, development of wild populations, and the expansion of inequalities between developed and developing nations are crucial issues that paint this perspective negatively. Even though GM crops highlight the existing potential in the science domain and facilitate increased food productivity, it possesses significant scientific, economic, and political risks and threats that deter its relevance.
Scientific Issues
The introduction of genetically modified crops continues to shape the scientific field. The process entails a genetic manipulation that breaks the natural barriers. This scientific approach informs about the potential that exists in the world of science. The crops produced have more resistance to diseases. As Withgott and Laposata (2018) state, modern techniques of agricultural production have accelerated the presence of disease-resistant crops. Undoubtedly, the GM strategy has countered the natural barrier to oversee the production of better crops and improved yields. However, some people believe that GM crops emerge from the characteristics of organisms that are not achievable by nature. This indicates that GM crops have no use to consumers and farmers since there is a risk of the development of wild populations. It attracts numerous questions scientifically since it is also based on outdated notions of DNA functionality.
Economic Issues
Genetically modified crops contribute to improved agricultural productivity. These foods have continued to accelerate a higher supply of food products internationally. Food insecurity and malnutrition are serious concerns across the globe (Data, 2013). Genetically modified crops have effectively handled these challenges to ensure that the world had a quality supply of food items. These products have been thoughtfully developed and carefully tested for human consumption. Thus, they are safe for use and accelerates human health. The steady supply of food guarantees nations a state of progressive growth and development. However, some people argue that these crops have biosafety and health hazards (Data, 2013). These issues could affect a nation’s economic growth when a large segment suffers from distinct illnesses associated with these products. A country invests massive resources to deal with the adverse outcome, whereas these resources would play a vital role in expanding other segments. Notably, the development of a single GM plant is expensive, and it would be appropriate to channel these resources to the establishment of more sustainable alternatives.
Political Issues
Politicians and other influential leaders have supported GM crops as it incorporates the biotechnology perspective, which is viewed as the future of the globe. The GM agenda is a potential tool for politicians as they seek to acquire distinct leadership positions. For example, they use this agenda to wooing voters to support and elect them with the promise of expanding the GM business. However, it has accelerated inequalities between the developed and developing economies. This method affects the welfare of the least developed nations because of limited choices. As Gonzalez (2009) highlights, political activists view biotechnology as a totalitarian approach that is more concerned about the developed countries at the expense of the least-developed nations. Therefore, genetically modified crops highlight distinct political issues that are likely to transform or derail a nation’s growth.
Conclusion
Genetically modified crops continue to generate diverse opinions across the scientific, economic, and political angles. The justification of the support or rejection of this approach depends on the impact it has on the people. As the world continues adopting this method, there is a dire need for all stakeholders to liaise and discuss the current benefits achieved, sustainability, and expected future outcomes. This will enable them to make viable choices that benefit their people and the world at large.
