HW - 5/7/13

Tonight's homework is to complete Assignment 31. See below. See the following links for general information on GMOs and specific information about the controversy surrounding labeling them.

Assignment #31 - Who Owns Our Food?

Based on the video clip from “Food, Inc.” and the readings, answer the following questions to the best of your ability in complete sentences.

Comprehension Questions

1. Review: What are genetically modified organisms?

2. Describe at least 3 examples of genetically modified crops.

3. Identify and describe advantages and potential problems associated with developing and growing GM foods.

4. For farmers, what is the purpose of saving seeds between seasons?

Thinking/Reflection Questions

5a. What is your reaction to the idea of a company (ex. Monsanto) patenting a seed – in other words, patenting an organism or food?

5b. Why would Monsanto’s patenting of GM seeds upset soybean farmers?

5c. Why would companies like Monsanto pursue the patenting of the GM seeds they produce?

6. Should companies be able to own the DNA contained in plant seeds? Why or why not?

Read about the controversy surrounding the labeling of foods containing GM ingredients.

7. State your position on the labeling of foods containing GM ingredients. Think about and include:

a. if you think that foods containing GM ingredients should be labeled as such

b. your argument(s) for labeling/not labeling these foods

c. an example of an acceptable label that would be present on a package for a food containing GM soy (if you support labeling) OR an example of an unacceptable label that you would object to if it were present on a package for a food containing GM soy (if you do not support labeling).

8. Identify and describe any externalities/hidden costs that you encountered today.