F5+Genetically+modified+foods

= Genetically Modified Foods = The process of singling out a gene for a characteristic from one organism and transferring it to another. These foods may have the exact same composition, nutrition, taste, smell, texture and functional characteristics as conventional food.

Example: FlavrSavr tomato.
 * == Normal tomato == || == FlavrSavr tomato == ||
 * Contains a gene that causes the fruit to go soft and rot after the fruit ripens || The gene for rotting is inhibited, giving the food a longer shelf life and fuller taste. ||


 * == Benefits of GM Foods == || == Concerns of GM Foods == ||
 * * Improve flavor, taste, texture, nutritional value. and increase maturation time
 * Increased resistance to disease (animals)
 * Enhanced nutrition (more vitamins, anti-cancer substances, reduced fat)
 * Environmentally friendly bio-herbicides and bio-pesticides. Leading to soil, water, and energy conservation and improve natural waste managements. || * Not enough about genes is known. Outcome of GM foods is uncertain.
 * Anti-biotic genes could be passed onto microorganisms
 * "Contaminate" crops due to uncertain effects of genes
 * Damage to food chain, damage to ecosystems
 * Allergic reactions ||