The world has recently witnessed a scientific revolution in the field of biotechnology. One of its most important outcomes has been the emergence of genetically modified foods. This process involves altering the genetic material of their components to improve their characteristics, such as increasing productivity, improving their resistance to pests, or increasing their nutritional value. Despite the potential benefits of these foods, controversy still exists about their impact on human health.
Genetically modified foods are foods whose genetic material has been modified using genetic engineering techniques. A gene is transferred from one organism to another to give it a new trait. For example, a gene from bacteria can be introduced into a specific plant, such as corn, to make it resistant to insects, or the genes of soybeans can be modified to make them more drought-resistant. Therefore, the most important benefits of genetically modified foods include: increased agricultural production by increasing the plant's resistance to diseases and pests; improved nutritional value, such as the production of golden rice, which is rich in vitamin A; reduced use of chemical pesticides to ensure environmental protection; and greater tolerance to harsh climatic conditions, such as high salinity and drought.  Despite its numerous benefits, there are health concerns raised by scientists, including: food allergies, as some of the transferred genes may cause allergies in some people; antibiotic resistance, due to the use of resistant genes in some modified crops; and long-term changes in the immune system or hormonal imbalances. In addition, its impact on biodiversity, as modified genes may be transferred to natural plants, affecting the ecosystem.
Hence, the role of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in monitoring crops and conducting scientific evaluations before they reach the consumer, along with strict monitoring to detect any negative effects, is evident. Balancing scientific progress with health safety is the best path to achieving a secure food future.