The first genetically modified (GM) food crop was introduced to the US market in the mid-1990s. By 2018, nearly 475 million acres of GM crops including maize, soybeans, rapeseed, cotton, papaya, potatoes, rice, squash, sugar beet and tomatoes had been planted across 26 countries.
While humans have used selective breeding and cross breeding for thousands of years to bring about more desirable traits in plants and animals, these methods can take a long time to develop and it is difficult to make very specific changes. However, by using genetic engineering (GE) techniques, scientists claim they can make more precise changes in a much shorter time period. This technology has been used to create crops that are promoted to have higher yields, a greater resistance to pests and herbicide tolerance, for example.
Ramping up the chemicals
While this all sounds great on paper, reality has painted a different picture. Yields may not have increased significantly but the emergence of superweeds and superbugs, resistant to both the GE crops and their associated pesticides, have. The introduction of these crops in the US resulted in a 239 million kilogram increase in the amount of herbicides being used between 1996 and 2011; in 2011 alone, GE crops used 20 percent more pesticides on average than non-GE crops. This has created a burden of increased costs to farmers and health risks to everyone involved along the chain, from growers to consumers.
Denne historien er fra July 2021-utgaven av EL Singapore.
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Denne historien er fra July 2021-utgaven av EL Singapore.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
6 Ways To A Super Smile!
Aesthete Smilestudio has an experienced team of dentists who provide a comprehensive range of services that meet the individual needs of each patient. Here's their advice on how to achieve an amazing smile - and the health benefits that can follow.
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It was the usual Singaporean day, with a bright, sunny sky and not a cloud in sight. And, also in typical fashion, the world suddenly turned dark as the heavens opened.
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CARING FOR A CURVED SPINE
Physiotherapist HAN YEN has a special interest in helping people who suffer from scoliosis. Here she tells us more about the symptoms, causes and treatments she uses to ease the condition.
Why We Love This Holland V Salon
Holland Village is dotted with great salons, but The Hair Lounge stands out for offering not only super chic haircuts and colour but top-notch service that turns every visit into a treat. In fact, some of us here at EL have been going there for years!
A Spa scape
If you love to unwind with some pampering in a luxurious spa, this one could be for you! We head to one of our favourites here in Singapore.
Lookin' Sharp!
Gents, up your suave factor with a perfectly fitted bespoke suit from one of these four top tailors in Singapore. There's something for the ladies too!
Looking for a Push Present?
Buying jewellery as a push present has become popular recently. These gifts, often given by partners to new mums, are tokens of appreciation and reminders of the journey of bringing new life into the world.
East Coast Chic
With its green parks, glistening water and charming cafés, Singapore's East Coast is all about laidback tropical vibes. Here, KARA BENSLEY of Joo Chiat boutique The Wyld Shop styles two fabulous outfits-of-theday (OOTD) that will see you through exploring the best spots in the neighbourhood - and all around Singapore - in style!