Genetically modified (GM) foods are now widely available, although in some countries environmental groups are campaigning against them. Define the term genetically modified food and discuss the benefits and concerns of using GM foods.

a genetically modified food is derived/produced from a genetically modified organism;

Award [1] for definition.

benefits:

crops: enhanced taste/quality/appearance;

reduced maturation time;

increase in nutrients and yield;

improved resistance to disease, pests and herbicides;

enrichment of rice with vitamin A;

animals: increased resistance;

productivity and feed efficiency;

better yields of milk/egg;

improved animal health;

environment: “friendly” bio-herbicides and bio-insecticides;

conservation of soil/water/energy;

improved natural waste management;

concerns:

(links to) increased allergies (for people involved in their processing);

altered composition of (balanced) diet / altered nutritional quality of food;

change in ecosystems / development of “superweeds”/“superbugs”;

Award [4 max] for benefits and concerns.

To score [4] both benefits and concerns must appear in answer.

Most candidates recognized that genetically modified foods come from genetically modified organisms. However, candidates generally thought of genetically modified foods as coming only from plants. Candidates did not discuss the advantages of genetic modifications in animals or for example in terms of environmental friendly pesticides.

Candidates struggled to discuss the concerns of using GM foods. Many candidates provided general and simplistic responses. For instance candidates just stated that GM foods were unnatural and therefore bad, showing no understanding of the real concerns.