GMOs: what they are, origin, types and personal health
Transgenics, also known as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), are organisms whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering techniques.
These modifications involve the insertion of genes from one species into the genome of another to give it specific characteristics or improve its properties.
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| GMOs: what they are, origin, types and personal health |
Origin of GMOs
The origin of GMOs dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, when scientists developed the techniques to isolate and manipulate individual genes. The first GM organism produced was a bacterium in 1973. As technology advanced, genes were transferred to plants, animals, and other microorganisms, leading to the development of GM crops in agriculture.
Types of GMOs
transgenic plants
They are the most common and account for the majority of GM crops grown today. Transgenic varieties of crops such as corn, soybeans, cotton, and rice have been created to improve their resistance to pests, herbicides, or adverse weather conditions.
Transgenic animals have been produced for the purposes of medical research, drug production, improvement of productive characteristics, and study of genetic diseases.
Microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeast, have been modified to produce enzymes, proteins, or metabolites useful in various industrial and pharmaceutical applications.
They are those that contain ingredients derived from transgenic crops. Genetically modified foods are often subject to strict regulatory scrutiny to ensure their safety.
Personal Health and Safety of GMOs
The safety of GMOs has been a topic of debate for years, and scientists continue to investigate their effects on human health and the environment. The main points to consider are:
Security assessments
Before a transgenic organism can be approved for commercial use, it typically undergoes rigorous testing to assess its safety. These evaluations include toxicological, allergenic and nutritional studies.
To date, major scientific organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States National Academy of Sciences (NAS), have concluded that approved GM foods do not pose any greater health risks than non-GMO foods. conventional.
Many countries have specific regulations on the labeling of GM foods so that consumers are informed. Labeling requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Some GM crops have shown benefits, such as reduced pesticide application, increased agricultural yields, and disease resistance.
However, there are legitimate concerns about patent control of transgenic seeds, the possible emergence of resistance to herbicides, environmental impact, and genetic contamination between crops.
Ultimately, the choice to consume GM foods or not is a personal one and may depend on ethical factors, cultural factors, and dietary preferences. If you have questions or concerns about GMOs, it's important to do your research and seek reliable information to make informed decisions about your personal health.
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