What are GMOs and what are the two major debates surrounding them?

• A. Genetically modified organisms; debates center on taste and color
• B. Genetically modified organisms; debates center on irrigation efficiency
• C. Genetically modified organisms; debates center on cooking methods
• D. Genetically modified organisms; debates center on safety/biodiversity and corporate control versus farmer independence

Answer: (D)

GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering to express new traits, such as pest resistance or drought tolerance.

The two big debates about GMOs are: first, safety and environmental impact—people worry about potential health effects for humans, unintended ecological consequences, and the risk of gene flow to wild relatives, which can affect biodiversity. Second, socioeconomic implications—patents and seed-company control can limit farmer independence, require purchasing new seeds each season, and influence seed diversity and farming practices.

The other choices miss these central concerns, focusing on taste, irrigation efficiency, or cooking methods, which are not the main issues driving GMO debates.