Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are increasingly being used in aquaculture. These organisms possess a unique genetic combination that makes them uniquely suited to their environment (Kennedy, 2020). As a result, these organisms are easier and cheaper to produce, contain more and desirable nutrients, and require fewer pesticides. In addition, GMOs can combine various genetic traits by combining cells beyond the taxonomic family. Consequently, GMOs in aquaculture can have significant and beneficial outcomes to modern aquaculture.
Despite their notable benefits, GMOs pose significant risk to humans. Firstly, their genetic composition is alien to the human digestive system. Therefore, bodies might experience severe allergic reactions after consuming food products derived from these organisms. Secondly, these organisms might be resistant to antibiotics that are commonly used to treat ailments. As a result, excessive consumption of these products could result in the development of incurable infections and epidemics. Thirdly, these organisms could colonise the natural species due to their unique adaptation, which could cause them to become extinct.
Hence, the GMOs could wipe out the species that humans have always relied on for their nutrition. Finally, there is no comprehensive study on the long-term impact of these organisms on human health and the ecosystem. Consequently, the introduction of these species in aquaculture could pose unknown and serious risk to human health.
While GMOs in aquaculture promise several benefits, they also pose significant and unknown threats to human health and wellbeing. Currently, there is no comprehensive research on the long-term effects of these organisms on human health or the wider ecosystem. Moreover, products developed from these organisms could be resistant to conventional drugs used to treat the common ailments. Therefore, the products should not be used beyond experimental scale until comprehensive research is done to prove their safety.
Reference
Kennedy, M. (2020). Evidence-based pros and cons of GMO foods. Insider. Web.