Facts and horizons of genetically modified organisms/foods and health issues

Abstract

A GMO stands for genetically modified organism, whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in a laboratory through genetic engineering. This creates plant, animal, bacteria, and virus genes that do not occur in nature. GMO foods (GMF) were introduced in the 1990s. Nowadays, GMF includes many plants and animals, whose genetic materials (DNA) structure has been modified. A biologist researcher creates GMOs by introducing genetic material, or DNA, from a different organism through a process called genetic engineering. Crops are most often genetically modified to increase production, improve diseases protection, improve resistance to insects, and herbs as well as modified to contain extra nutrients, such as vitamins and proteins. Animals can be genetically modified to increase production and improve quality. Foods produced from GMOs are often referred to as GM foods (GMF), where they are carefully studied before they are sold to the public to ensure they are safe. These studies showed that GMO foods are as healthful and safe as their non-GMO foods. There is some controversy over the benefits and risks of GMO foods. It is vital issue to discuss of benefits and risks of GMO foods, taking into account their potential effects on human health and the environment. The present article focuses on GMO plants and animal products (GMF) that may concern human consumers.