The food we eat on a daily basis is not renewable. Yes we can grow it, but all the natural resources earth has given us will run out in future generations, if not used properly and with caution. One alternative scientists created in 1996 was genetically modified organisms, also known as GMOs. Genetically modified organisms have been a topic of discussion for over one and half decades mainly because of the opposing view points that surround the issue. Some people believe that  in order to sustain our food resources, we must use these as alternatives at times. Others believe that GMOs might have a chronic effect on our bodies that scientists haven’t discovered yet.In order to create a genetically modified organism, one must alter the genetic makeup of it. But, it’s not that simple. According to the textbook Living in the Environment, there are three main components that are required in order to have a substantial finished product:

•   The gene you want to transfer
•   The target species
•   A vector to carry the gene (trans-gene)  into the target species

With the “ingredients” down, I can now explain the process.

The process of creating a genetically modified organism is long, but precise:

1. Isolate the gene of interest.
2. Insert the gene(s) into a transfer vector (a circular molecule of DNA plasmid from the naturally occurring soil bacterium).
3. Transformation of plant: The cells containing the plasmid with the new gene are mixed with plant cells or cut pieces of plants such as leaves or stems
4. Selection: One must select the trans gene that they would like to put into the target specie
5. Regeneration
6. Testing: The testing is generally carried out first in a greenhouse. The various testing options one can choose from are used to determine whether the modified plant has the desired new trait
7. Safety: A food and environmental safety assessment is carried out.

Studies have shown that humans nowadays consume genetically modified organisms daily. Freshmen Jessica Gehrin felt that GMOs were used by most fast food restaurants such as Mcdonald’s and Chipotle. Vegetables and produce are the most used GMOs as of now because of how easier it is to alter their genetic makeup. After interviewing Panther Creek students during a poll, the majority of the students felt that GMOs were safe.

Although scientific evidence has shown that GMOs are safe, scientists are still not sure about the chronic health effects it might have because of how recent GMOs have became an option.