Genetically Modified Crops Can Be A Breakthrough Solution To Rising Food Demand And Improved Agricultural Practices

Genetically modified plants are genetically altered plants grown in agriculture, wherein the genetic material of the plant is changed using genetic engineering techniques. Such plants may have altered promoters, enhancers, or sequences host in Agrobacterium or other methods. The modified plants have additional trait sets than conventional crops. There are various benefits to these types of modified crops. One of the more popular and widely used types of genetic modifications is the application of insecticides with insect growth regulator (IGR) systems.

This type of modification involves releasing specific proteins that serve as alarm systems to prevent the reproduction of certain insect species, especially when that species is known to be dangerous to a crop's intended target. The IGR system reduces the frequency and severity of insecticide use. This particular method is approved for organic and conventional crops. In addition to this, there are other varieties of insecticides designed specifically for use with genetically modified crops. The application of genetically modified crops to human health is still an enigma. No substantial data have been gathered on either side of the argument.

There has been some limited research on the use of insecticides with IGR systems in agriculture. The concern is mostly on the risk to bees and other insects. The concern for human health is largely due to risks from exposure to genetically modified food, with an emphasis on an increased risk of serious consequences on consumers. There has been much debate in recent years about whether genetically modified (GM) crops are safe for human consumption. Recent studies have indicated that there are no major health concerns with consuming GM foods. However, some scientists remain concerned about the potential effects of DNA alteration in organisms, especially when these alterations can occur accidentally during processing or production. Recently, in November 2019, researchers from Iowa State University developed a new genetically modified corn that increases yield up to 10%.