Genetic Modification is when the genetic make-up of a living organism is altered (1). This can be done by changing an existing section of DNA or by inserting a new gene (4). Genetic Modification began in the late 1970’s (6). It can be used between different species for example from a plant to a human or an animal to a human. It is often used to enhance the flavour of foods as well as to improve the size and quantity of foods like tomatoes. Joining genes from different organisms is known as recombinant DNA technology, and the resulting organism is said to be “genetically modified,” or “transgenic.

” Genetically Modified products include medicines, vaccines, foods, food ingredients and animal feeds (1). In my personal opinion I believe that genetic Modification has its advantages as well as its disadvantages. I do have reservations about this type of research as I find it unethical and dangerous for humans and wildlife. There are quite a few advantages of Genetic Modification (GM). One example is placing vaccinations in foods and making it more beneficial for the people who consume them. By putting vaccinations in foods using GM it will mean that tablets and injections will not be required.

There are also bananas that produce human vaccines against infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, fish that mature more quickly and fruit and nut trees that yield years earlier (1). Plants can also be enabled to produce pharmaceutical substances such as edible vaccines (B). I think that this is helpful for people who have phobias of injections and for those who can not afford to buy expensive medication for their illnesses. An extra supplementary of vitamins can be enclosed in foods such as oranges to increase a human’s daily intake in their diet.

Vitamin C is vital for a human being and an increase of this vitamin in oranges can be very beneficial to consumers, as it will improve their intake of the healthy nutrients provided by the orange. GM is faster and lower in cost (2). They can also be used in crops. Pesticides, herbicides and insecticides will not be sprayed on the crops so there are fewer chemicals present on the crops so there is a less chance of it being harmful to humans. This will have an environmentally friendly outcome. I think this shows that GM technology can be environmentally friendly and can reduce a human’s intake of chemicals and pollution.