Transcript CAPT EMBEDDED TASK Bioengineered Foods

CAPT EMBEDDED TASK
Bioengineered Foods
Bioengineered Foods:
Friend or Foe?
 Your task was to design a
persuasive pamphlet in
support of or in
opposition to the
mandatory labeling of
genetically altered food
based on scientific
evidence.
 You used various sources
to support your stance,
carefully considering the
credibility of those
sources.
What are genetically modified
foods?
 They are foods that look
altogether “normal” in all
respects, yet they are
genetically different.
 Inside their DNA – the
genetic code that
determines the way they
look, feel, and taste is an
extra gene.
 Bioengineers are using
gene-splicing technology
to add this gene to
developing crops and
foods.
Why have bioengineers developed
genetically modified foods (GMF)?
 ..as a means to solve world hunger and
poverty.
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Foods are nutritionally enhanced
Longer lasting shelf life
Resistant to drought, frost, and pests
Hopefully will relieve famine and improve economies of
many developing countries.
What types of foods are
genetically modified?
Corn and tomatoes…
Cotton and canola…
Rice and soybeans…
Alfalfa and sweet potatoes…
What are the benefits of GMF?
 CROPS
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Enhanced taste and quality
Reduced maturation time
Increased nutrients and yields
Improved resistance to
disease, pests, and herbicides
 ANIMALS
 Increased resistance to
disease
 Better yields of meat,
eggs, and milk
What are the
‘cons’ of GMF?
 Potential human health impact such as production of new
allergens.
 Domination or monopolization of world’s food supply by only a few
nations.
 The ethical issue surrounds the tampering of nature by mixing
genes among species.
How are GMF labeled?
 Agribusiness industries
believe labeling should be
voluntary.
 Consumer interest groups
are demanding mandatory
labeling.
 Do people have the right
to know what they are
eating?
 Are consumers willing to
absorb the cost of that
labeling?
In Conclusion…
 GMF have the potential to…
 Solve world hunger
 Protect and preserve the environment by
increasing crop yield
 Reduce dependence on pesticides and herbicides
 HOWEVER
 We must proceed with caution to avoid causing
harm to human health and environment.