Disadvantages of Genetic Modification
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 6.2.12
Disadvantages of Genetic Engineering
Many people object to (disagree with) the use of genetic engineering. Some concerns are:
Concerns about genetic engineering
- Because it is a relatively recent development, it is uncertain what the long-term effects may be.
- Some consider it unethical to create new life forms or move genes between species.
Disadvantages of genetically modified (GM) crops
- Some people expect GM crops to negatively impact wild flower and insect populations, thus reducing biodiversity.
- Some people think that there will be long-term effects of consumption on human health.
- If transplanted genes managed to escape into the natural environment, we could accidentally create a ‘superweed’ that is resistant to herbicides.
Test yourself on Disadvantages of Genetic Modification
Why do some people think genetic engineering is unethical?
Why is it uncertain what the long-term effects of genetic engineering might be?
Why would a herbicide-resistant 'superweed' created by escaped genes cause problems for farmers?
Why is it difficult for scientists to know whether eating GM crops affects human health in the long term?
How could genes escaping from a GM crop into the environment create a herbicide-resistant 'superweed'?