Genetically modified Organisms GMO

Research Proposal

Reasons

The United States has allowed the use of genetically modified (GMO) foods for human consumption. This has led people to fight for measures to decrease exposure to GMO foods in America. From food labeling to encouraging the purchase of foods that are non-GMO sourced, these measures have painted a stigma on GMO. Several reasons exist for the removal of GMO foods. One reason is that most genetically modified genes inserted into the seeds that yield fruits and vegetables are derived from foreign species like bacteria and viruses (). These bacteria and viruses can cause harm to the human body in the form of sterility, allergic reactions, and deceased livestock.

For example, one article noted that GMO corn may change the histological structure of living organisms if they consume it long-term. The animal they experimented on were two albino adult male rats. “Marked ultrastructural changes of some enterocytes with focal loss of the microvillous border were observed. Some enterocytes had vacuolated cytoplasm, swollen mitochondria with disrupted cristae and dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum. Some cells had dark irregular nuclei with abnormally clumped chromatin” (Ibrahim & Okasha, 2016, p. 579). These significant changes may be observed in humans if they consume enough GMO foods in the long-term. Ultimately this means that GMO could be considered a food safety/quality issue.

The second reason for the selection of this topic is the ongoing efforts of people to educate others on GMOs and the impact it has had on food manufacturing companies. Processed foods like cereals and canned soups make sure to include the ‘No GMOs’ label on their products to ensure customers know what they are getting regarding food quality. This was not like this in the recent past. Mandatory labeling has become the norm ever since the 2016 passing of the GMO Labeling Bill (Ronald & Adamchak, 2018). These actions demonstrate the fight against GMO is influential and long-term.

Draft Thesis

Genetically modified (GMO) foods are a popular ingredient in American processed foods. These foods taste good and are affordable, but often come with potential for health risks. Some say a part of that reason are the GMO ingredients in these foods. Companies like Monsanto claim GMO crops are safe and do not damage the body. However, research on rats suggest they might produce problems within the living organism. Those fighting against the inclusion of GMOs have made strides by convincing Congress to pass a GMO food labeling bill in 2016.

Reason

I believe this draft thesis will allow me to focus on two key aspects of GMO foods: Monsanto and the GMO food labeling bill. Monsanto is a major company with a lot of power and is the frontrunner in the introduction of GMOs into the United States and all over the world. It is important to see what progress they made and what progress those that oppose GMO have made to provide a balance of opposing views.

3 Major Characteristics

Official position: Most people are either in support or against GMO food inclusion. Considering countries like France ban GMO foods, and a bill was passed to label GMO foods, many are against GMO foods.
Decision-making power: People choose what foods to buy. Because of the decision of many Americans to not consume GMOs or want GMOs labeled, it is mandatory now for companies to label foods that have GMO ingredients.
Current view on topic: The current view for many Americans is that GMO foods are bad for one’s health and may lead to potential reduction in food quality in the United States and worldwide.

Scope and Outline

The paper will focus on understanding the two main sides of the GMO debate. Monsanto is a major company that profits from cultivation and selling of GMO crops. However, Americans have fought for years to keep GMOs away from American grocery shelves. Therefore, the paper will have several sections. The first is the Introduction followed by background on GMO foods and Monsanto. Then there will be a section on why people have refused to accept GMO foods and then the current efforts to combat GMOs. The discussion section will provide comparative literature refuting the reasons behind those opposing GMOs. Finally, it will close with conclusion.

Key Questions

1. What is the role of Monsanto in the GMO campaign? People need to know who the main pushers are for the GMO use in the United States.

2. Why is GMO potentially hazardous to one’s health? The fight against GMO is strong, and one has to wonder why people are so emboldened to go against GMO foods.

Research Plan

The research plan is a detailed literature review providing background information on key topics like Monsanto, government action against GMO foods, animal studies on GMOs, and the prevalence of GMO foods in America today.

Annotated Bibliography

Ibrahim, M. A., & Okasha, E. F. (2016). Effect of genetically modified corn on the jejunal mucosa of adult male albino rat. Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology, 68(10), 579-588. doi:10.1016/j.etp.2016.10.001
This article provides evidence that supports the potential harm GMO foods may have on living organisms. If animals can be affected by GMO foods, humans may experience negative health consequences as well.
Ribeiro, T. G., Barone, B., & Behrens, J. H. (2016). Genetically modified foods and their social representation. Food Research International, 84, 120-127.
It is important to get a good idea of what the public feels about GMO foods. While there is strong support against GMOs, some may feel they provide a benefit.
Ronald, P. C., & Adamchak, R. W. (2018). Tomorrow's table: Organic farming, genetics, and the future of food. Oxford University Press.

This book provides an introduction into GMOs, Monsanto, and the rise of organic farming to combat the prevalent use of GMOs within the United States.