ABSTRACT
In recent history, there are few issues that have received more attention and wider debate than genetically modied (GM) foods. The world population may be viewed as belonging to one of three groups with regard to production and consumption of GM foods: proponents, opponents, and the confused. The rst two groups are a minority, whereas the majority are those in the third category. This same trend is expected to continue for some time in the future. There are huge volumes of information on various issues of GM foods. This makes it a challenging task to nd out answers for questions asked by members of the general public and for concerns raised about the effects of GM foods, particularly on human health and the environment. It has been realized that there are different advantages and disadvantages of GM foods. The extent to which they can help or harm humans and the environment is a debatable aspect of this technology. Arguments exist on both sides for and against the growing trend by many of the world’s nations as to why they should or should not alter the genetic make-up of plants and animals. The arguments about transgenic crops are about values, which are neither absolute nor universal, and the controversies surrounding transgenic crops have polarized society into proponents and opponents, with once seemingly trustworthy and ethically sound scientists being viewed with suspicion by many (Robinson 1999).
