Starving tomorrow: GMOs can save the world. Is humanity willing to pay the price?

In this report, we explore how the food and beverage industries can harness genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, to sustain and nourish a rapidly growing global population.

Scott Miller, Staff writer

August 21, 2024

1 Min Read
Non-GMO crops may be the future of food

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At a Glance

  • In Hawaii, genetically modified papaya cultivars SunUp and Rainbow successfully fought off the Papaya ringspot virus.
  • Nearly 90% of U.S. crops are genetically modified, including staples like corn and soybeans.
  • Advanced gene-editing tech is revolutionizing genetic engineering, while regulatory agencies struggle to keep up.

As the global population continues to grow and environmental challenges become more severe every day, the role of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in improving food security continues to expand. But the story of GMOs isn’t only about the successful modification of crops like Hawaiian papayas; it's a broader narrative of innovation, controversy and the quest for safety in our food system.  

Despite GMOs’ potential to enhance crops by increasing insect resistance, herbicide tolerance and more, critics argue that the price may be too high to pay. Supporters of genetic modification, however, point to the urgent need for solutions to potential concerns like climate change and other challenges. In short, we may be standing on the brink of a food sustainability crisis, and while GMOs offer a promising set of tools, their acceptance hinges not just on scientific validation, but on public trust as well. 

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About the Author

Scott Miller

Staff writer, SupplySide Food & Beverage Journal

Scott Miller brings two decades of experience as a writer, editor, and communications specialist to SupplySide Food & Beverage Journal. He’s done a little of everything, from walking a beat as a freelance journalist to taking the Big Red Pen to massive technical volumes. He even ran a professional brewing industry website for several years, leveling up content delivery during an era when everyone had a blog.

Since starting at SupplySide Food & Beverage Journal, he’s written pieces on the price of greenwashing (and how to avoid it), debunked studies that served little to no purpose (other than upsetting the public) and explained the benefits of caffeine alternatives, along with various other stories on trends and events.

Scott is particularly interested in how science, technology and industry are converging to answer tomorrow’s big questions about food insecurity, climate change and more.

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