Question
Based off "The public should not be scared by the term “genetic engineering.” This powerful platform requires making only relatively minor and very targeted modifications to the animal genome, compared, for example, with selective breeding and domestication, where we manipulate many genes over generations without knowing exactly what is altered. We have all been eating selectively bred fish, chicken, beef and other animals for many years without thinking twice about it. The AquAdvantage Atlantic salmon has only one extra copy of a fish gene inserted into its genome. This one addition, while enhancing the hormones of the growth axis in fish, operates within the fish's physiological range. And these are fish hormones that have no effect on the human consumer. The AquAdvantage salmon is no different from conventional farmed salmon in its composition and health benefits, and the Food and Drug Administration has concluded that it is safe for people to eat." Begins with a topic sentence that TTQA (The argument I find more compelling is…) Elaborates on your topic sentence claim and qualifies your ideas with evidence from the paragraphs At least 2 summarized examples with 2 sentence commentary At least 1 quote that is properly introduced with 1 sentence commentary Acknowledges the counterargument and if you changed your mind about the topic (Others may believe…; However, . . .) (My viewpoint on this issue did/did not change because…) Is at least 8 sentences long Uses correct capitalization and punctuation
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The argument I find more compelling is that genetic engineering, particularly in the context of the AquAdvantage salmon, should not evoke fear but rather be viewed as a precise and efficient means of modifying animal genomes for beneficial outcomes. Unlike traditional selective breeding, which can inadvertently alter multiple genes over time without precise knowledge of the changes made, genetic engineering allows for targeted modifications. For instance, AquAdvantage salmon has only one extra copy of a fish gene inserted into its genome, enhancing growth hormones while staying within the fish's natural physiological range. This scientific approach ensures exclusivity in genetic changes, which ultimately promotes food safety and quality.
Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has assessed that the AquAdvantage salmon is nutritionally equivalent to conventional farmed salmon, suggesting that it does not pose any risk to human consumers. As stated in the passage, “the AquAdvantage salmon is no different from conventional farmed salmon in its composition and health benefits." This solidifies the idea that genetic engineering does not compromise consumer safety or health, instead providing a viable alternative for sustainable aquaculture.
While some may argue that any type of genetic modification could lead to unforeseen consequences or ethical concerns, I believe such fears can be mitigated through regulatory measures and rigorous scientific evaluation. However, it is important to recognize that the method of selective breeding has been practiced for generations and carries its own risks without clear understanding. My viewpoint on this issue did change because I now see genetic engineering as a sophisticated tool that can offer improved efficiency and safety in food production, rather than a threat to our food system.
Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has assessed that the AquAdvantage salmon is nutritionally equivalent to conventional farmed salmon, suggesting that it does not pose any risk to human consumers. As stated in the passage, “the AquAdvantage salmon is no different from conventional farmed salmon in its composition and health benefits." This solidifies the idea that genetic engineering does not compromise consumer safety or health, instead providing a viable alternative for sustainable aquaculture.
While some may argue that any type of genetic modification could lead to unforeseen consequences or ethical concerns, I believe such fears can be mitigated through regulatory measures and rigorous scientific evaluation. However, it is important to recognize that the method of selective breeding has been practiced for generations and carries its own risks without clear understanding. My viewpoint on this issue did change because I now see genetic engineering as a sophisticated tool that can offer improved efficiency and safety in food production, rather than a threat to our food system.