How GMO crops help farmers, communities and the environment

default a golden banana top compared with a non modified cavendish banana qut
Image: IFL Science

1. Genetic engineering can be good for farmers.“GE crops are cultivated to help food grow better,” says [Dr. Tamika Sims, director of food technology communications at the International Food Information Council Foundation]. The benefits vary from crop to crop, but as Dr. Sims explains, these might include protection from pests and disease, the ability to use fewer resources (e.g., saving on water) and enhanced productivity (e.g., growing more food in less space).

2. It’s also good for the environment — probably. “GE crops have notably increased crop yields and simultaneously decreased pesticide use,” says Dr. Sims. While different studies make different claims about how much pesticide use has declined — and some claim that it hasn’t — the overall impact on the environment seems positive.

3. It could be *really* good for communities. “GE crops can also be enhanced with nutrients, which can help people with limited access to nutritious foods,” says Dr. Sims. “Inventions such as golden rice, a GMO rice crop (developed to have an enhanced amount pro-vitamin A), and the GMO Cavendish bananas (made to be resistant to Fusarium wilt disease) are helping provide nutritious foods to people who lack access these essential nutrients.” She also points out that increased crop yields support sustained access to fruits and vegetables for more people.

Read full, original post: Here’s Why You Don’t Need to Freak Out About GMOs

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