You're Eating Genetically Modified Foods and You Don't Even Know ItThe discovery of genetic engineering is a major breakthrough in science. The promise of being able to genetically increase the rate of food production has convinced many people to support this food modification system. In 2013, genetically modified crops accounted for nearly half of all U.S. agricultural land used for cultivation (Fernandez-Cornejo). Scientists have boasted about the enormous benefits since the discovery of genetic engineering, but have never talked about the consequences of using this procedure. Food is essential to the nourishment and proper development of all living things and is too important to our survival to be put at risk. Even though the most essential goods are found around us, there are certain cases in which modifications are necessary. For example, water cannot be consumed freely due to pollution and contamination; therefore, we rely on big corporations to filter our most vital needs. But what would happen if these companies started altering our water to benefit their own industry without our knowledge? Businesses are generally profit-seeking and focus more on making money than on consumer well-being. These companies are more motivated by money than by the public good. Genetically modified foods must be properly labeled so that consumers know what they are putting into their bodies. By being aware of this, consumers can avoid health risks, help prevent crop monopolization, and prevent the rise of consumer ignorance. Genetically modified foods pose potential health risks if consumed. Without knowing the potential risks, excessive consumption of these foods can...... middle of paper ......edFernandez-Cornejo, Jorge, Seth Wechsler, Mike Livingston and Lorraine Mitchell. “Genetically Modified Crops in the United States.” US Department of Agriculture and Economic Research (2014): n. page. Internet. April 13, 2014. Langer, Gary. “Poll: Skepticism about genetically modified foods.” ABCNews. Internet. April 13, 2014. Marshall, Michael. “GM Foods: The Case for the Defense.” » New Scientist 216.2886 (2012): 8-9. Premier Academic Research. April 12, 2014. Philpott, Tom. “Could This Election Kill Monsanto’s Mutant Seeds?” Mother Jones 37.6 (2012): 5-7. Premier Academic Research. April 12, 2014.Sifferlin, Alexandra. "California Fails to Pass Genetically Modified Food Labeling Initiative". CN. Internet. April 13, 2014. “10 Ways to Use Corn.” Mental thread. Internet. April 12, 2014. “Congress Quietly Extends the “Monsanto Protection Act.” Political blind spot. September 12, 2013. The web. April 12. 2014