A HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE ON POTENTIAL RISKS AND BENEFITS OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED PRODUCTS

A HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE ON POTENTIAL RISKS AND BENEFITS OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED PRODUCTS

Since the introduction of genetically modified products to the market, they have been surrounded by controversy, especially issues concerning safety, health, risks and benefits of these products have highly been debated. Among the potential risks are antibiotic resistance, toxicity, allergenicity and socioethical concerns. On the other hand, various benefits like enhanced stress resistance, improved nutritional quality and the potential for efficient production of precious bioproducts have made it crucial to perform extensive research on the topic. Gathering information about risks and benefits of this emerging technology would be much helpful to provide a better understanding of it through scientific discussions and to correct misconceptions surrounding it. This review aims to thoroughly investigate current debates on the application of genetic modification technology in agriculture within recent literature and present it in a systematic manner. Furthermore, some societal aspects of the issue will be discussed. It is eventually concluded that GM technology in agriculture offers considerable benefits, not only surpassing its risks, but also opening new doors to overcome multifarious environmental and food challenges.