Transgenics: Salvation or Doom? The Dilemma That Defines Our Future
Imagine a world where hunger is just a distant memory, where agriculture flourishes in barren regions, and where diseases related to malnutrition are a thing of the past. This is the utopian potential of genetically modified foods. With genetic engineering, we can engineer crops that are pest-resistant, drought-tolerant, and enriched with essential nutrients. This is a world where food security is a reality, where every bite is a promise of health and well-being for all humanity.
But at what cost? In the shadow of these brilliant promises hides the specter of uncontrolled genetic manipulation. What happens when nature itself is subjected to human will? What unforeseen consequences could arise from the release of these modified organisms into the environment? Critics warn of loss of genetic diversity, contamination of natural crops and risks to human health. In this dream world of genetically modified foods, are we sowing the seeds of our own destruction?
The truth is shrouded in a veil of uncertainty. Science offers us answers, but it also presents us with puzzling questions. Studies support both the benefits and risks of genetically modified foods, but the complexity of biological systems ensures that we never have the complete picture.
The main companies that lead the advance in the development and use of genetically modified foods are giants of agricultural biotechnology and the food industry. These companies have invested enormous resources in research and development to create genetically modified crops that promise to increase yields, improve resistance to diseases and pests, as well as offer improved nutritional characteristics. Some of the most notable companies in this field are:
Monsanto (now part of Bayer):
Known as one of the pioneers in agricultural biotechnology, Monsanto has been a driving force behind the development of genetically modified seeds, especially corn, soybeans and cotton. The company has created varieties that resist herbicides such as glyphosate and have developed technologies such as modification for insects.
Syngenta (now part of ChemChina):
Syngenta is another powerhouse in the field of agricultural biotechnology, specializing in seeds and agrochemicals. The company has developed genetically modified crops with herbicide tolerance and pest resistance, focusing on crops such as corn, soybeans and rice.
Dow AgroSciences (now part of Corteva Agriscience):
This company has been a leader in creating genetically modified crops with herbicide resistance and insect tolerance. They have developed varieties of corn and soybeans that are widely used in modern agriculture.
BASF Plant Science (now part of BASF):
BASF has been active in the research and development of transgenic crops with improved traits of disease tolerance, herbicide resistance and improved yields. Their focus has been on crops such as potatoes and rice.
DuPont Pioneer (now part of Corteva Agriscience):
With a focus on seeds and plant genetics, DuPont Pioneer has developed a variety of genetically modified crops, including corn, soybeans and cotton, with traits such as insect resistance and herbicide tolerance.
Although most studies have found no conclusive evidence of adverse human health effects from consuming genetically modified foods, some critics and interest groups have raised concerns about possible risks. Some of the health problems that might worry people include:
Allergens: There is concern that the introduction of genes from other species into genetically modified foods could cause allergic reactions in certain sensitive people. Scientists conduct allergenicity assessments to identify and avoid these types of risks during the development of transgenic crops.
Antibiotic resistance: Some genetic engineering methods use marker genes that confer antibiotic resistance as part of the process. There is concern that these genes could be transferred to bacteria in the human or animal digestive tract, which could potentially affect the effectiveness of antibiotics used in medicine.
Toxicity: Concern has been raised that genetic changes introduced in GM crops could produce toxic compounds or antinutrients that could be harmful to human health. However, regulatory bodies require extensive safety testing before a GM food is approved for marketing, including toxicity assessments.
Long-term impact: Despite short-term safety testing, some critics are concerned about the possible long-term effects of consuming genetically modified foods on human health. Given the relatively short history of these products on the market, it may be difficult to fully evaluate their long-term safety.
It is time to face reality: genetically modified foods represent an existential challenge for humanity. But in this challenge also lies our opportunity. We must embrace science with caution and wisdom, seeking a balance between innovation and prudence. Only then can we ensure that genetically modified foods are a blessing and not a curse for our future.
Ultimately, the decision lies with us, as individuals and as a society. Will we risk embracing the potential of genetically modified foods, or will we retreat for fear of the unknown? The answer will define not only our relationship with nature, but also our destiny as a species.
References
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2016). Genetically Engineered Crops: Experiences and Prospects. National Academies Press.
Gaskell, G., & Bauer, M. W. (Eds.). (2017). Genomics and Society: Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Socioeconomic Implications. Academic Press
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303794229_Transgenic_Food_Benefits_Safety_And_More
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3584506/
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alimento_transg%C3%A9nico
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3791249/
