Scenario
The constant debate between large corporations (eg.
Monsanto) and environmental organizations (eg. Friends of Earth) which
deplore the use of genetic engineering to produce "Frankenfoods"
have made it difficult for consumers to decide which side is giving people
a better picture of the real situation. Your job will be to research both
sides of this issue and make an informed choice as to which side of this
debate you have sided with.
Part A: Research the Issue
- How is artificial selection, aka selective breeding
(which has been practiced by humans for thousands of years on plants
and animals) different
than producing a GMO (Genetically Modified Organism through
artificial gene transfer?
- List the seven steps outlined to make a Genetically
Modified Plant.
- What are some of the benefits of
genetically engineering crops?
- Health Canada refers to genetically modified foods as
"Novel Foods".
- How many novel foods have been approved by Health
Canada?
- Do these "Novel foods" have to be labelled
as being genetically modified? What is Health
Canada’s stance on this issue?
- Identify five foods we
often eat which have been genetically engineered and why it was done.
- Why do many people feel we need to genetically
engineer crops?
- What are the health
concerns related to the consumption of Genetically Modified
Organisms?
- What are some of the possible environmental
implications of widespread use of genetically engineered crops?
- What are the basic
characteristics of crops grown on an organic
farm?
- Why might farmers choose
to grow their crops organically instead of using all science has to
offer?
- Take the ENN (Environmental News Network’s) GM
Food Quiz to learn more about the use of genetically modified
crops.
Part B: Analyzing the Data
Make a list of pros and cons for both genetically
modified crops and for organically grown crops.
Part C: Take a Stance
Should we allow genetically modified crops to be grown
and be sold for human consumption in Canada or should we stop trying to
tamper with Mother Nature and only allow organically grown food to be sold
for human use? Defend your position.
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