Genetically Modified Foods for Sustainable Food Security: Debunking the Myths

Abstract

The world food production may not support the population that is growing at an exponential rate. Genetically modified crops and foods may therefore provide solutions for such shortcomings. However, uncertainties and myths such as the socio-economic impact of genetically modified foods on humans, the environmental and health risks may impede the use of these foods and instil fear among the public. Contrarily, it was learned that genetically modified crops and foods were generally deliver a positive outlook as they improved the socio-economic qualities in the farmers of third world countries. Besides, it was also noted that the genetically modified crops and foods impose a minimal adverse effect on the environment and human health while more benefits were attested. As genetically modified crops and foods seem to be more advantageous to humanity in general, long-term studies and meta-analyses are still required to ascertain the safety of these genetically modified organisms as staple foods.

Keywords

• Food security, Food sustainability, GM crops, GM foods, GMOs