environment

definition of transgenic seeds

Certain seemingly natural-looking crops may actually be the result of an artificial process of genetic manipulation of the seeds. Thus, those seeds to which new genes have been incorporated to modify their internal structure are known as transgenic seeds. This process is part of a discipline, biotechnology, which currently represents a revolution in the food sector.

Thanks to genetic engineering, it is possible to introduce into a plant the genes of other types of species (which can come from plants, microorganisms or even animals). Therefore, transgenic seeds have genes that are not part of their structures (in biotechnology they are called genetically modified organisms or GMOs). For all this to be possible, advances in the area of ​​molecular biology have been necessary.

The main plant species with which genetic engineering is practiced are the following: corn, potatoes, tomatoes, cotton and rice. All of them are important from a strategic point of view for the nourishment of the planet as a whole.

The advantages of genetically manipulating seeds

In the first place, the main advantage of these seeds lies in an increase in food production, which has two direct consequences: more benefits for the agricultural sector and more possibilities to face the challenge of feeding the whole planet (not only can achieve a greater amount of food but these can incorporate a series of nutrients that are beneficial to human health).

On the other hand, it must be taken into account that genetically modified seeds are designed to be more resistant to pests that affect crops. This greater resistance of the plants also implies a reduction in the use of chemical pesticides.

Disadvantages in the production of transgenic seeds

There are researchers and entities related to the environment that warn about the risks of genetic manipulation of seeds. For example, corn engineered against insect pests is collaterally affecting butterflies.

Another objectionable aspect of this process is related to the production of large pests (certain genes produce resistant seeds, but this ends up affecting the quality of the soil which, in turn, causes greater resistance of the weed). Finally, biotechnology applied to transgenic seeds is associated with ecological risks, as well as a series of health problems (for example, some allergies).

Photos: iStock - luchschen / Brasil2

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