So what are GMO’s? GMO’s is the abbreviation for genetically modified organism. A GMO is an organism whose genome has been altered by the techniques of genetic engineering so that its DNA contains one or more genes not normally found there(Dictionary.com). GMO, also called "genetically engineered" is a plant, animal or microorganism, bacteria that is created by means that overcome natural boundaries. Genetic engineering involves crossing species which could not cross in nature. For example, genes from a fish have been inserted into strawberries and tomatoes.
The introduction of bacterial genes into cash crops, to enhance their growth, nutritional value or resistance to pests, is becoming rather commonplace in plant technology. One example that has made frequent headlines is the introduction of bacterial genes for natural pesticides into plants, in order to eliminate the need for chemical pesticide use. The drawback to this technology is public concern over the consequences of ingesting these natural pesticides. Problems such as these might be alleviated by site-specific expression of the gene, or control of expression throughout the lifecycle. For example, it might cause less concern if expression of a pesticide gene in the leaves of young plants could be used to prevent foliage from being destroyed early on, without expression in the fruit later in the lifespan.
One of the central public debates of the coming years may well be over what we should eat for dinner. Or more specifically, whether we should be eating and growing and selling genetically modified plants. One side claims genetically modified plants can end world hunger and do away with pesticides. The other side protests that the risks are still unclear, speaks of "frankenfoods," and warns of super pests.
What is clear is that we're already eating these plants. Estimates suggest that at least 60 percent of the processed food we eat contains genetically modified ingredients. By the year 2000 about...