Whether to eat genetically modified animals is a question at issue. In order to give them new characteristics, scientists change the animals’ DNA through molecular techniques. Some people think this technology makes animals more nutritious while some think this makes them more harmful. Which side should be supported?
Genetic engineering aims at increasing the productivity of animals and crops and quality of food, so that people can have healthier food to eat, and even the global starving problem can be solved. But is it so magical? Does it really benefit us? GM food has a very short history. It first appeared in the 1980s. No matter whether they are GM crops or animals, their health values are still open to doubt. People may be allergic to GM animals. New types of diseases may also be developed from these animals.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the main factor causing the food crisis is the extreme disparity between the rich and poor, but not shortage of food. GM technology requires numerous professionals and huge capital, which only international enterprises can afford. These large-scale companies would finally monopolize the food market. And this would deprive peasants who make a living by keeping and selling livestock of their livelihood. The gap between the haves and have-nots would only be widened, if we accept the eating of GM animals.
Moreover, genetic modification violates the laws of nature. There would be a negative impact on the wildlife if the modified animals escape or are released to the wild. They may cross-breed with other normal animals, and may produce ‘Franken-creatures’ which would threaten the whole ecosystem.
All in all, not only eating GM animals may harm our health, but it also widens the rich-and-poor gap and upset the food chain. Therefore, there should be more monitoring and better planning on GM food before we are in support of eating them.