Feed the World

Biotechs Helping to Eliminate Hunger Worldwide

(Source:International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) -) http://www.flickr.com/photos/ricephotos/5516789000/in/set-72157626241604366

Hunger has plagued mankind for centuries and it continues to do so to this day.  I have talked before about the different pathways in biotechnology that a person can take depending on their interests.  What if I were to tell you that there is a path in biotechnology that could help eliminate hunger worldwide. Would you believe me? Well its true.

This pathways involves the use of biotechnology to improve the resistance of crops to insects, enables the use of environmentally sustainable farming practices, and increases the tolerance of plants to herbicides.

Here is a list of  a few positives and drawbacks to choosing this pathway as a career choice.

Positive Aspects

• Genetically modified crops are resistant to insects and pesticides allowing for higher crop yields.
• Resistance to pesticides decreases their use and further prevents pesticide run-off into the environment.
• Biotechnology can make super plants, which are enhanced with nutrition to prevent malnourishment and allows farmers to grow crops without the need for land preparation or tilling.  
• Foods can be produced with less fat and oil and does not contain allergens or toxins.  
• Plants can modified to be resistant to pesticides leading to a higher crop yield.
• Plants can be engineered to grow at a faster rate.

Negative Aspects

• Modifying the DNA of plants could lead to potential side effects.  These side effect could be felt in humans who consume the modified plant. 
• Insect resistance could lead to adaptation of insects to the modified plants, necessitating the need for further modifications.
• Genetic modification of plants can lead to the rise of new plant diseases that could wipe out the crops worldwide.
• Extensive research is needed to produce the changes in the plants.
• There is little involvement of the FDA.

This is a promising pathway for those of you who are passionate about helping end world hunger. The work makes a direct impact on people around the world and gives a rewarding experience.