One of the greatest innovations in science, and particularly food biology over the years has been the increased use of genetically modified organisms (GMO), which has allowed foods such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and even livestock to be mass-produced with numerous benefits, including cost-effectiveness, greater quality, reduction in spoilage, etc…
However, there are many people who are not in favor of genetically modified foods and prefer to stick to natural foods, also known as organic food.
What is organic food?
Generally, people attribute organic food to mean food which is environmentally friendly, all-natural, and pesticide-free. However, according to the actual definition, “organic food” is a labeling term used to describe food which is regulated and which is compliant with organic farming standards. Organic farmers emphasize farming vegetables, fruits, grains, livestock, poultry, etc… using renewable resources in order to promote environmental sustainability for future generations.
Moreover, organic livestock must be given adequate living conditions, including access to the outdoors, and raised free of growth hormones, antibiotics or the by-products of other animals.
However, organic food does not necessarily mean that it is pesticide or insecticide-free. Pesticides are used in organic farming which is sourced from natural resources, and often times its impact is not much different than the pesticides used in conventional farming.
Does organic food lead to a healthier lifestyle?
While it may seem that the consumption of organic food is the only way to live a natural and healthy life, it may not necessarily be true. Biologists and scientists work hard to genetically engineer the DNA of certain foods in order to make them better for human consumption. For instance, it is because of GMOs that the fruits we eat today, such as strawberries and watermelons, are as large and longer-lasting than before. Similarly, genetically modified crops such as corn have become resistant to pests that would otherwise destroy the crop.
From a scientific point of view, food produced with the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is researched in order to facilitate the rising needs of the human population, and also to create breeds of food that will benefit the future generations.
Science is continuously introducing new methods and innovations to improve our lives. GMOs, when used safely and properly, can be just as healthy and good for consumption as organic food. Rather than debating between the benefits of organic and genetically modified food, it is more important to consider the impact that farming practices have on the environment, both in the short term as well as long term, and how it will affect our lifestyles.