One GM food that I know well is the genetically modified tomato.
This tomato has been altered
to improve certain characteristics, such as resistance to diseases, pests, and environmental
stresses, as well as to enhance its shelf life. In fact, one of the most famous examples is the
"Flavr Savr" tomato, which was developed in the 1990s to have a longer shelf life by slowing
down the ripening process.
Genetically modified tomatoes are typically modified to improve their resistance to bacterial
and fungal infections, which are common problems for farmers. They are also designed to be
more durable, which helps reduce the number of tomatoes that spoil during transport and
storage. In some cases, the tomatoes have been engineered to have a higher nutritional content,
such as increased levels of vitamins or antioxidants.
These GM tomatoes are used in various food products. While fresh GM tomatoes are sold for
direct consumption in some markets, they are more commonly processed into products like
sauces, juices, and pastes. The benefits of this modification can be seen in the reduction of
pesticide use and less food waste, as the tomatoes have a longer shelf life and are less likely to be
damaged by pests.
As for my opinion, I think GM tomatoes have both advantages and disadvantages. On the
positive side, they can help reduce the environmental impact of agriculture by decreasing the
need for chemical pesticides and by reducing food waste due to longer shelf life. However, I
understand there are concerns about the long-term health effects of consuming genetically
modified foods, and whether they might impact biodiversity. Still, I believe that with proper
regulation and safety testing, the benefits of GM tomatoes could outweigh the risks.
