However, the methods of modifications used on GM seeds vary from the traditional method in one important aspect: the genes have not been modified over generations of cross-pollination, but rather inserted directly into the DNA of the seed. These affect the environment and humans in a variety of positive and negative manners and at times, it may even do both simultaneously. With the use of patented GM seeds becoming more common, we need to further develop the necessary research in order to better understand all of these benefits and risks in terms of short and long term effects, so that we can make the most informed decisions for the environment and for ourselves. In the meantime, government issued, regulatory measures need implementation to monitor the use and distribution of patented GM seeds until a better understanding of all effects, whether positive or negative are determined.
Genetically modified seeds could potentially assist in alleviating malnutrition around the globe. As Deborah Whitman, M.S. in Biotechnology from John Hopkins University explains, "malnutrition is a very common occurrence among third world countries where impoverished people rely heavily on a single, staple food crop such as rice for their primary nutritional needs". However, rice lacks all of the necessary nutrients to adequately prevent malnutrition: in its natural form it is very low in iron and vitamin A. Scientists and researchers have engineered and genetically modified seeds to create a new strand of rice, named golden rice. More specifically, this golden rice has been modified to contain high levels of β-carotene (beta-carotene) better known as vitamin A. Insufficient amounts of this vitamin can lead to vision problems and in some cases, blindness (Genetically Modified Rice). Many people are aware that vitamin A has something to do with vision, but many are not aware of the central role it plays in maintaining the integrity of the immune system.
