Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are plants or other organisms whose genetic structure has been changed by scientists. Scientists make these changes by taking desirable genes from other organisms. Then they add these genes to the DNA of plants. Corn and soy are often changed this way. The purpose of this swap is to make crops stronger and more resistant to disease and parasites. Supporters believe that GMOs can also be used to produce crops that have a bigger yield. This would feed more people. Some crops can even be developed to survive droughts and hardships that would otherwise destroy them. While all of these benefits sound good, some people have a bleaker outlook. Skeptics worry about the effects of GMOs on humans. Although the U.S. government has declared that GMOs are safe, some experts suspect that they cause food allergies in children and adults. The only way to find out for sure is to conduct long-term testing. In addition to possibly causing food allergies, GMOs may also have a lower nutritional value than unmodified crops do. Until more studies are done, the public cannot know for sure. Finally, people are concerned about the increased use of pesticides on GMO crops. It is true that these crops are engineered to survive pesticides. However, this has resulted in the growth of superbugs that require even greater amounts of pesticides. GMO crops are doused with extra chemicals. Later, they line the shelves of your local supermarket or become part of processed foods. As of now, testing has not confirmed the risks associated with GMOs. Some consumers opt to purchase only non-GMO foods just to be safe. However, it is hard to tell which foods have GMOs. The United States does not require companies to label products that contain GMOs. However, any item labeled as organic and verified by the USDA does not have GMO ingredients. The field is divided on GMOs for now. Producers proclaim the benefits. Meanwhile, some scientists ask for more testing to confirm the safety of these crops. Until then, consumers will have to educate themselves about the foods they buy.
D. that GMO crops have greater nutritional value
#21 How does the author of “Are GMOs Really Safe?” support an argument about GMOs and pesticides?
A. by stating that GMOs require increasing amounts of pesticides
B. by suggesting that GMOs can process pesticides in a healthy way
C. by claiming that pesticides damage GMO crops more than non-GMO crops
D. by explaining that organic pesticides can be used effectively on GMOs
1 answer
A. by stating that GMOs require increasing amounts of pesticides
1 answer