Some people think that genetically modified (GM) crops are a positive development. Others, however, argue that they are potentially dangerous. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

GM

food

products have been at the centre of a global debate for several years, with claims about their effects ranging from the eradication of world hunger to the total destruction of wildlife habitats and ecosystems.

This

essay aims to balance those arguments and concludes that more research needs to be done so that we can either reap the benefits of

GM

crops

or prevent irreparable damage. Some people claim that the genetic engineering of

food

products brings many advantages.

Firstly

, they argue that

food

production can be massively increased by making

crops

more resistant to pests.

Secondly

Add a comma

,Secondly

show examples

they believe that

food

can actually be improved by adding vitamins or removing problem genes that lead to allergies,

for example

in peanuts. Fruit and vegetables can

also

last

much longer if the gene that ripens them is modified.

This

means that they can be stored for much longer periods and so there will be less waste.

On the other hand

, people who oppose the widespread use of

GM

techniques worry that there could be long-term negative effects. They are concerned that, so far, the

GM

industry has not been able to prove that they are safe. The issue is not only how safe

such

foods are for humans, but

also

what long-term effects they may have on the environment and wildlife populations.

For instance

, there is some evidence to suggest that

GM

crops

may contaminate nearby plants. In conclusion, I personally tend to agree with these concerns. I think that while there may be obvious benefits to

GM

crops

, overall they present more potential dangers. Their impact could be so large and so irreversible that more long-term studies should be carried out before their use spreads any

further

.