genetically modified food reading comprehension

It will feed people who do not have much food. 1940: Plant breeders learn to use radiation or chemicals to randomly change an organisms DNA. To make it easier for consumers to know if the foods they eat contain GMO ingredients, the U.S. Department of Agriculture maintains a list of bioengineered foods available throughout the world. Most soy grown in the United States is GMO soy. Despite the lack of consensus on these topics, the Codex Alimentarius Commission has made significant progress and developed Codex texts relevant to labelling of foods derived from modern biotechnology in 2011 to ensure consistency on any approach on labelling implemented by Codex members with already adopted Codex provisions. Cases have been reported where GM crops approved for animal feed or industrial use were detected at low levels in the products intended for human consumption. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, an environmental treaty legally binding for its Parties which took effect in 2003, regulates transboundary movements of Living Modified Organisms (LMOs). Although GMO crops are convenient for farmers, there are environmental concerns. Genetic engineering is a process that involves: The following example gives a general idea of the steps it takes to create a GMO plant. For non-food use, they may include plants or animals producing pharmaceutically important proteins such as new vaccines. Genetically Modified Food: A Short Guide For the Confused FDA has also approved an alteration in the GalSafe pig for human food consumption and potential therapeutic uses. Consumers have questioned the validity of risk assessments, both with regard to consumer health and environmental risks, focusing in particular on long-term effects. Environmental concerns include the risk of altered genes entering wild species. Guidance for industry: Voluntary labeling indicating whether foods have or have not been derived from genetically engineered plants. People have been eating foods grown from genetically engineered seed for only the past two decades. The environmental safety aspects of GM crops vary considerably according to local conditions. Then, they find an organism (plant, animal, or microorganism) that already has that trait within its genes. Advertise here. Specific systems have been set up for the rigorous evaluation of GM organisms and GM foods relative to both human health and the environment. GMOs are foods that have been modified using genetic techniques. WHO will keep paying due attention to the safety of GM foods from the view of public health protection, in close collaboration with FAO and other international bodies. Some day people will see that genetically modified food can solve many of the world's problems. HS-LS Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits. This test focuses on genetically modified organisms. The papaya is a tropical fruit that is high in nutrients and antioxidants. Different GM organisms include different genes inserted in different ways. Understanding new plant varieties. WHO, together with FAO, has convened several expert consultations on the evaluation of GM foods and provided technical advice for the Codex Alimentarius Commission which was fed into the Codex Guidelines on safety assessment of GM foods. Is the safety of GM foods assessed differently from conventional foods? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. a negative impact on insects and other species. 2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK. Scientists are developing new ways to create new varieties of crops and animals using a process called genome editing. (2020). Reading comprehension - ensure that you draw the most important information given about genetically modified food from the lesson Making connections - use understanding of the concept of. You can avoid GMOs by limiting GMO ingredients, eating locally, or buying 100% organic. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Gene transfer from GM foods to cells of the body or to bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract would cause concern if the transferred genetic material adversely affects human health. In the project students will self-select two (2) examples of genetically modified foods (plant . Common questions about diet, activity, and cancer risk. Why? Page 2. WHO has been taking an active role in relation to GM foods, primarily for two reasons: on the grounds that public health could benefit from the potential of biotechnology, for example, from an increase in the nutrient content of foods, decreased allergenicity and more efficient and/or sustainable food production; and. Test on GMO's (GM foods / cloning) - B1/B2 - iSLCollective For example, the Bt gene is commonly genetically engineered into crops like corn, cotton, and soybeans. Concerns? However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and USDA maintain that GMOs are safe for human and animal consumption (6). . That said, the labels wont say GMO but instead the term bioengineered food. It will display either as the USDA bioengineered food symbol, listed on or near the ingredients, or as a scannable code on the package with directions, such as Scan here for more information (34). The release of GMOs into the environment and the marketing of GM foods have resulted in a public debate in many parts of the world. Environmental risk assessments cover both the GMO concerned and the potential receiving environment. These groups fear that as a result of the interest of the chemical industry in seed markets, the range of varieties used by farmers may be reduced mainly to GM crops. genetically modified food. web animal farm comprehension check questions and answers may 2nd 2018 genetically modified food controversies The GalSafe pig was developed to be free of detectable alpha-gal sugar on its cell surfaces. In this example, scientists wanted to create insect-resistant corn to reduce the need to spray pesticides. worksheets, lesson plans, activities, etc. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has stated that theres no evidence to link GMO food intake to an increased or decreased risk of cancer (20). GMOs are food items that have been made using genetic engineering techniques. While foods developed using traditional breeding methods are not generally tested for allergenicity, protocols for the testing of GM foods have been evaluated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and WHO. Food Science Extended Informational Reading Comprehension Food scientists also work to increase food abundance. How is a risk assessment for the environment performed? These groups fear a dominant position of the chemical industry in agricultural development, a trend which they do not consider to be sustainable. GM fruits and vegetables can stay good longer. GM foods are developed and marketed because there is some perceived advantage either to the producer or consumer of these foods. The first GMO food to appear on the market was a tomato, in 1994. reduction in other . GMO summer squash is resistant to some plant viruses. As genetically modified produce makes its way to market this year, experts debate whether these foods are safer to consume than other products. soybeans increased oleic acid) have been also studied recently. Language goals Grammar practice General grammar practice Reading comprehension Reading for detail (deep reading) Writing practice IELTS Reading & Vocabulary: GM Foods Key is provided. While current research suggests few risks, more long-term research is needed. Countries which have legislation in place focus primarily on assessment of risks for consumer health. Genetically Modified Organisms Reading Comprehension Article This GMO saved papaya farming on the Hawaiian Islands. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? <> This implies that some change or tweak has been made. Key is provided. As such, the GMO crops dont need to be exposed to harmful pesticides as often (3). The exclusive use of herbicide-tolerant GM crops would also make the farmer dependent on these chemicals. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. One day, GM food may be able to grow in dry land in Africa. Moreover, this could make them safer than other foods, which do not undergo testing. Why do farmers in the US grow GMO crops? Agricultural Biotechnology, Recalls, Market Withdrawals and Safety Alerts, Science and History of GMOs and Other Food Modification Processes, Agricultural Biotechnology Education and Outreach Initiative, Spread the Word About Feed Your Mind: Stakeholder Toolkit, National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard. This debate is likely to continue, probably in the broader context of other uses of biotechnology (e.g. With numerous studies supporting both sides. GM crops that inherently produce this toxin have been shown to require lower quantities of insecticides in specific situations, e.g. Certain groups are concerned about what they consider to be an undesirable level of control of seed markets by a few chemical companies. 633 Third Avenue, 16th Floor New York, NY 10017. GMO crops are incredibly common in the United States, with at least 90% of soy, cotton, and corn being grown through genetic techniques (4). Such considerations are likely to also affect the debate on GM foods. Where medicines are concerned, many consumers more readily accept biotechnology as beneficial for their health (e.g. Genetically Modified Organisms: The Golden Rice Debate The way governments have regulated GM foods varies. As a result, the person or animal could also develop antibiotic resistance. What are the advantages and potential dangers of allowing for-profit corporations to control the intellectual property and gene patents that are responsible for producing much of the worlds food supply. based on the need to examine the potential negative effects on human health of the consumption of food produced through genetic modification in order to protect public health. Reading Comprehension. Next, scientists use tools to insert the gene into the DNA of the plant. 1990s: The first wave of GMO produce created through genetic engineering becomes available to consumers: summer squash, soybeans, cotton, corn, papayas, tomatoes, potatoes, and canola. What further developments can be expected in the area of GMOs? English Language Centre / Study Zone / Level 200 Upper Beginner / Reading Topics / GM Food: Reading Comprehension, Tel Many GMO crops also become ingredients in other foods, for example: Genetic modification is when scientists insert new DNA into the gene pool of an existing plant. Students will learn how a scientific theory of nuclear winter shifted the debate over nuclear weapons in the 1980s, and how that hypothesis connects to the 21st century challenge of climate change. In the future, genetically modified foods may help solve food and environmental problems associated with the growth of the world's population. Last medically reviewed on April 21, 2022, GMO means genetically modified organism, and it usually refers to changing the genes of an organism in a laboratory setting. What is the writer's main purpose for writing about GM foods. What are genetically modified foods? 2 0 obj Golden rice is genetically modified to produce beta-carotene, which is not normally present in rice. This example uses a type of insect-resistant corn called Bt corn. Keep in mind that the processes for creating a GMO plant, animal, or microorganism may be different. For thousands of years, humans have been using traditional modification methods like selective breeding and cross-breeding to breed plants and animals with more desirable traits. Most of the foods we eat today were created through traditional breeding methods. What do you think are the greatest potential dangers or unintended consequences of GMO agriculture? It comes from a naturally occurring bacteria known as Bacillus thuringiensis. For example, early farmers developed cross-breeding methods to grow corn with a range of colors, sizes, and uses. Quiz & Worksheet - Genetically Engineered Food | Study.com There is some concern that GMO foods may trigger an allergic reaction. The GM crops currently on the market are mainly aimed at an increased level of crop protection through the introduction of resistance against plant diseases caused by insects or viruses or through increased tolerance towards herbicides. Starting on January 1, 2022, all large food manufacturers in the . By inserting the Bt gene into the DNA of the corn plant, scientists gave it the insect resistance trait. Are GMOs Bad for the Environment? | Environmental Working Group Are there implications for the rights of farmers to own their crops? GMOs introduce "foreign" genes into the mix, genes that would not likely be introduced through . Travels in the Genetically Modified Zone by Winston, Mark L. - eBay Food, genetically modified 1 May 2014 | Q&A These questions and answers have been prepared by WHO in response to questions and concerns from WHO Member State Governments with regard to the nature and safety of genetically modified food. Codex developed principles for the human health risk analysis of GM foods in 2003. Until that time, consumers were generally not very aware of the potential of this research. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn is . This means that animals that eat GMO food do not turn into GMOs. Biofortification increases the nutritional value of crops. Consumer concerns have triggered a discussion on the desirability of labelling GM foods, allowing for an informed choice of consumers. People with Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) may have allergic reactions to alpha-gal sugar found in red meat (e.g., beef, pork, and lamb). We avoid using tertiary references. In addition, some GMO potato varieties have been developed to resist bruising and browning that can occur when potatoes are packaged, stored, and transported, or even cut in your kitchen. GMO foods could help maintain supplies in the face of changing environmental conditions and a growing population. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. What are the main issues of concern for human health? Level: intermediate. where pest pressure is high. Sustainable agriculture and biodiversity benefit most from the use of a rich variety of crops, both in terms of good crop protection practices as well as from the perspective of society at large and the values attached to food. In recent years, developments in genetic engineering have allowed scientists to make specific changes more quickly. Future GM organisms are likely to include plants with improved resistance against plant disease or drought, crops with increased nutrient levels, fish species with enhanced growth characteristics. Currently, no human research ties GMO intake to cancers, and there is no evidence that eating GMOs will change your DNA. The technology is often called "modern biotechnology" or "gene technology", sometimes also "recombinant DNA technology" or "genetic engineering". 7 However, using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food has been a controversial practice ever. insects which are not pests) to the gene product; the stability of the gene; the reduction in the spectrum of other plants including loss of biodiversity; and increased use of chemicals in agriculture. Foods produced from or using GM organisms are often referred to as GM foods. 2017: GMO apples are available for sale in the U.S. 2019: FDA completes consultation on first food from a genome edited plant. Worksheets that speak. In the United States, no regulations currently mandate the labeling of GMO foods. Since the first introduction on the market in the mid-1990s of a major GM food (herbicide-resistant soybeans), there has been concern about such food among politicians, activists and consumers, especially in Europe. Genetically modified food may seem strange, but so did other new technologies at first. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely. However, most of the DNA in food whether GMO or not either is destroyed by cooking or breaks down before it reaches the large intestine. stream Amazon Kunde. GMO plants go through in-depth review and tests before they are ready to be sold to farmers. The technology is often called modern biotechnology or gene technology, sometimes also recombinant DNA technology or genetic engineering. Personal Health. Email Advertise here, reading comprehension of a text on genetically modified food, inserted on the topic healthy habits, Preview: Researchers demonstrated that a genetically modified household plant could effectively reduce the levels of several common indoor air pollutants. Multilevel Book also available in level Z2 People have been eating foods grown from genetically engineered seed for only the past two decades. reading comprehension - Read online for free. More than half the granulated sugar packaged for grocery store shelves is made from GMO sugar beets. GMO canola is used mostly to make cooking oil and margarine. Many GMO crops are used to make ingredients that Americans eat such as cornstarch, corn syrup, corn oil, soybean oil, canola oil, or granulated sugar. The tomatoes gained a lot of initial publicity but the company of bioengineers was poorly equipped to handle the business of actually selling their tomatoes, and eventually sold out to Monsanto. In 2020, GMO soybeans made up 94% of all soybeans planted, GMO cotton made up 96% of all cotton planted, and 92% of corn planted was GMO corn. reading comprehension of a text on genetically modified food, inserted on the topic healthy habits. The premise of these principles sets out a premarket assessment, performed on a caseby- case basis and including an evaluation of both direct effects (from the inserted gene) and unintended effects (that may arise as a consequence of insertion of the new gene) Codex also developed three Guidelines: Guideline for the conduct of food safety assessment of foods derived from recombinant-DNA plants, Guideline for the conduct of food safety assessment of foods produced using recombinant-DNA microorganisms, Guideline for the conduct of food safety assessment of foods derived from recombinant-DNA animals. This test focuses on genetically modified organisms. Most GMO soy is used for food for animals, predominantly poultry and livestock, and making soybean oil. This article reviews the differences between beet and cane sugar to. Does the European Union require labeling? Choose the best answer for each question. 3 0 obj In 1994, the Flavr Savr tomato made its debut on supermarket shelves across the country, opening the door to the continuing dispute over genetically modified food products. Learn what the terms cured and uncured bacon actually mean when you see them in the store. . In addition, current research suggests that GMO foods are safe for consumption (13). Second is Modified. (2016). A few varieties of GMO apples were developed to resist browning after being cut. These are the same types of proteins that organic farmers use to control insect pests, and they do not harm beneficial insects, such as ladybugs.