GMO notes for the debate

What is GMO?
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and refers to any living thing
that has had its genes altered. This includes plants, bacteria, and fungi
- Engineers design plants using genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
to improve taste, nutritional content, and resilience. However, people
have concerns over their safety, and there is much debate about the
pros and cons of using GMOs.

PROs and CONs of GMO

GMO foods may offer advantages to the grower and consumer. These can
include:
 Pest control: Many GMO crops have been genetically modified to
express a gene that protects them against pests and insects. The Bt gene
is commonly genetically engineered into crops like corn, cotton, and
soybeans. It comes from a naturally occurring bacteria known as Bacillus
thuringiensis. This gene produces a toxic protein to several pests and
insects, which gives the GMO plants a natural resistance. As such, GMO
crops don’t need to be exposed to harmful pesticides as often.
 Fewer pesticides: A 2020 study notes that GMO technology has reduced
global chemical pesticide use by 8.3%Trusted Source and indirectly
reduced greenhouse gas emissions because farmers don’t need to spray
their fields as often.
 Improved survival and greater yield: Other GMO crops have been
modified with genes that help them survive stressful conditions, such as
droughts, and resist diseases like blight, resulting in a higher yield for
farmers.
 Increased nutritional value: Genetic modification can increase the
nutritional value of foods. For example, rice high in beta carotene, also
called golden rice, was developed to help prevent blindness in regions
where local diets are chronically deficient in vitamin
 A. Enhanced flavor: Genetic modification can enhance the flavor and
appearance of foods, such as the non-browning apple
SUMMARY
GMO foods are easier and less costly for farmers to grow, which makes
them cheaper for the consumer. GMO techniques may also enhance foods’
nutrients, flavor, and appearance.

Some of the potential concerns around GMO consumption include:

 Allergies: Because GMO foods contain foreign genes, some people worry
that they harbor genes from foods that may prompt an allergic reaction.
According to the FDA, researchers who develop GMO foods run tests to
ensure that allergens aren’t transferred from one food to another.
Research suggests GMO foods are no likelier to trigger allergies than
their non-GMO counterparts.
 Cancer: Because cancers are caused by DNA mutations, some people
fear that eating foods with added genes may affect your DNA. The
American Cancer Society (ACS)Trusted Source has stated that there’s no
evidence to link GMO food intake to an increased or decreased risk of
cancer, and there is no evidence that eating GMOs will change your DNA.
However, more long-term human research is still needed.
 Herbicide use: Most GMO crops are resistant to herbicides, such as
Roundup, so farmers may use herbicides to kill surrounding weeds
without damage to their crops. But Roundup and its active ingredient
glyphosate are subject to controversy because animal and test-tube
studies have linked them to various diseases. There is new evidence that
glyphosate exposure may increase the relative risk of non-Hodgkins
lymphoma by 41%.

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 Honeybees: There has also been concern that pollen from Bt crops may
negatively impact honeybees, but there doesn’t seem to be any solid
evidence to support this yet.
SUMMARY
 The main concerns around GMOs involve allergies, cancer, and
environmental issues — all of which may affect the consumer. While
current research suggests few risks, more long-term research is needed.

Gmo vs. organic

 It’s also worth noting that no food labeled “100% organic” contains any
GMO ingredients because U.S. law prohibits this. However, if a product is
simply labeled “organic,” it may contain some GMOs.
 In the European Union (EU), foods with more than 0.9% GMO
ingredients must be listed as “genetically modified” or “produced from
genetically modified [name of food].” For foods without packaging, these
words must be listed near the item, such as on the supermarket shelf.
SUMMARY
As of 2022, the USDA requires that foods with GMO ingredients must be
labeled “bioengineered food”. You can avoid GMOs by limiting GMO
ingredients, eating locally, or buying 100% organic.

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SCRIPT
Debate Topic: Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
Moderator: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to tonight's
debate on genetically modified organisms, a topic that has stirred
considerable controversy and debate around the world. Representing the
affirmative side, arguing for the benefits of GMOs, we have [Speaker A]. On
the opposing side, arguing against GMOs, we have [Speaker B]. Without
further ado, let's begin.

Opening Statements:

[Speaker A] (Pro-GMO):
Ladies and gentlemen, GMOs have revolutionized agriculture and have
the potential to address many of the challenges facing our planet, from
food security to environmental sustainability. Through genetic
modification, we can enhance crop yield, improve nutritional content,
and even develop resistance to pests and diseases. GMOs offer a
promising solution to feeding a growing global population while
minimizing the environmental impact of agriculture. Let's embrace the
science and innovation behind GMOs to create a brighter, more
sustainable future for all.

[Speaker B] (Anti-GMO):
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. While the proponents of GMOs tout
their benefits, we must not overlook the significant risks and ethical
concerns associated with genetically modified organisms. GMOs raise
serious questions about food safety, environmental sustainability, and
corporate control over our food supply. The long-term effects of GMO
consumption on human health remain uncertain, and the use of
genetically modified crops can lead to biodiversity loss and harm to

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 natural ecosystems. It's time to prioritize the precautionary principle and
proceed with caution when it comes to GMOs.

Rebuttal Round:

[Speaker A] (Pro-GMO):
I respectfully disagree with my opponent's stance. The scientific
consensus overwhelmingly supports the safety of GMOs for human
consumption. Countless studies have demonstrated that GMOs are as
safe, if not safer, than conventionally bred crops. Furthermore, GMOs
have enabled farmers to reduce the use of harmful pesticides and
herbicides, leading to a decrease in environmental pollution and
improved soil health. Let's not ignore the evidence in favor of fear-
mongering and misinformation.

[Speaker B] (Anti-GMO):
I appreciate my opponent's perspective, but the purported benefits of
GMOs come at too high a cost. While some studies may suggest the
safety of GMOs, there is still much we don't know about their long-term
effects on human health and the environment. Additionally, the
corporate dominance of the GMO industry raises concerns about food
sovereignty and farmer autonomy. We must prioritize the precautionary
principle and err on the side of caution when it comes to introducing
genetically modified organisms into our ecosystems.

Closing Statements:

[Speaker A] (Pro-GMO):

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 In conclusion, GMOs hold immense potential to address some of the
most pressing challenges facing our world today. By harnessing the
power of genetic engineering, we can increase food production, enhance
nutritional quality, and mitigate the impacts of climate change on
agriculture. Let's embrace science-based solutions and support
responsible innovation in the field of biotechnology.

[Speaker B] (Anti-GMO):
Thank you all for engaging in this important debate. While the
proponents of GMOs may promise a brighter future, we must not ignore
the potential risks and uncertainties associated with genetically modified
organisms. Let's prioritize the health of our planet and future
generations by exercising caution and restraint when it comes to the
widespread adoption of GMOs. Our food system should prioritize
sustainability, biodiversity, and the well-being of both people and the
planet. Thank you.