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Question

Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of production of genetically modified crops.

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Solution

The production of genetically modified (GM) or transgenic plants has several advantages.
(i) Most of the GM crops have been developed for pest resistance, which increases the crop productivity and therefore, reduces the reliance on chemical pesticides.
(ii) Many varieties of GM food crops have been developed, which have enhanced nutritional quality. For example, golden rice is a transgenic variety in rice, which is rich in vitamin A.
(iii) These plants prevent the loss of fertility of soil by increasing the efficiency of mineral usage.
(iv) They are highly tolerant to unfavorable abiotic conditions.
The Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Crops
1. Cross Contamination
2. The introduction of GM crops can increase the allergies in children.
3. Some GM crops have the antibiotic property that can make crops immune to some disease and can accumulate in the food chain.
4. Genetically modified crops endanger the native species and cause damage to the natural environment by reducing the biodiversity.

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