Center For Food Safety role in regulating genetically engineered foods (Essay Sample)

Name Professor Class Due date Center for Food Safety Introduction The Center for Food Safety is an American non- profit making organization that emphasizes the quality of food items that are consumed by the public. The organization advocates for curbing of harmful genetic engineering of food substance and animals. The group states that sustainable agriculture can be achieved through organic farming. In a world where food production is key to economic growth, there have been massive innovations meant to increase productivity. However, the technologies employed have had their negative impacts on the local populace. The mission of the group is to disseminate information about genetically engineered foods through books, reports and also taking steps to reduce production of the foods through campaigns to boycott the foods, legal suits and petition to congress. Facts Genetically engineered foods are increasingly becoming popular in US food stores. However, it is highly unlikely that many people understand that they purchase and consume genetically modified food. According to the center for safety, the increase in genetic engineering in agriculture has made it a norm in the farming industry. In fact, over 90% of soybeans, 88% of cotton and 85% of corn are genetically modified. Scientists argue that continuous consumption of GE foods can have serious health impacts on humans. Statistics reveal that in every plate of food take by an American; at least one of the ingredients is genetically engineered. This begs the question, what can we do to stop the fast spreading risk? Despite the looming issue of genetic engineering in agriculture, the government has not taken working measures to mitigate the industry. This has left people in the harm's way. However, people have formed their own mechanisms to deal with the issue through organizations such as CFS. Genetic modification of foods also impacts negatively on the environment. This is because GE of food entails massive usage of pesticides and herbicides. The chemicals are not environment friendly. The result is deteriorated environment that is not conducive for human and animal life. Tools and resources offered by the center for food safety As a non-profit making organization, the center uses public means to push its motions through to the intended authorities. The organization uses signed petitions to provide evidence that people are not satisfied with GE. Consequently, the organization uses resources such as reports, worksheets and newsletters to communicate awareness to the public. The resources empower people with information to recognize genetically engineered foods. Reports that show the massive supply of genetically engineered food in US markets have triggered concerns about food safety. Moreover, the center empowers citizens with reasons to petition for change in the food industry. The impact has been a series of legal suits filed against the production of GE foods. Achievements and current issues Over the last 15 years, the CFS has managed to file a petition to stop genetic modification of wheat, tomatoes, potatoes and rice. This is because being the basic foods in the US, many people would be consuming GE food unknowingly or due to lack of options. The petitions went through. In addition to the prohibition, the organization is currently seeking court orders to block Monsanto from establishing GE wheat in Oregon....