Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are living organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in the laboratory by genetic engineering. It combines genes from plants, animals, bacteria, and viruses that do not occur in nature or by conventional methods of crossing over.

"GMOs are designed to be extra — extra healthy, extra fast-growing, and extra resistant to weather or pests," says Megan L. Norris, PhD, a biomedical researcher at the UT Southwestern Medical Center. However, GMOs may cause allergic reactions. Because GMO foods contain DNA from other organisms, it's possible that the new DNA can trigger allergies in people who wouldn't normally be allergic to the food. Not all experts agree on this concern, however, some scientists argue that this type of gene transfer is very unlikely and there is little risk to humans.

          GMOs pose more environmental hazards than conventional plants and organisms, or have no scientific evidence for food and food safety. The traditional method of producing better varieties of plants or animals is through different breeds.