The idea of genetically altering organisms has always made me uncomfortable. When I began to read this article, I assumed I would take the side of the conventional farmer. After reading this article, however, I wonder if either way of planting is safe and effective. I see advantages and drawbacks in both conventional and biotechnological methods. I have to wonder if anyone really knows what he/she is ingesting when he/she buys a potato at the market, or gets a super scoop from McDonald’s.
Manipulating the genetic make-up of a plant so that it is less expensive is, perhaps, good for the farmer and the consumer. Once it becomes more prevalent, however, what if companies decide to create cows and chickens in science labs, or humans for that matter?
While the idea of biotechnologically creating plants may pose many questions, conventional ways of farming brings with them many obstacles as well. Pesticides that are sprayed on crops can be extremely toxic. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration does not require the labeling of toxins on foods, which makes conventional ways of farming unsafe and ineffective.
The problem of safely and effectively producing crops for the public is a difficult one. How can one grow a clean, cheap harvest? I see two solutions to the problem of safely producing crops for the public: do it yourself or buy locally. This way, one can choose whether pesticides, biotechnology, or natural farming will be used on foods.
The Essay on Conventional and organic food products
While conventional food products are still dominating American market, the phrase “healthy eating” is gradually gaining popularity. To supplement this new trendy belief, a wave of organic products is sweeping across this nation’s grocery stores. But do people really realize the differences between conventional and organic products as they mound their shopping carts? Do they know ...
Otherwise, one is left to trust the harvesting practices of an unfamiliar vender.
