Genetically Modified Corn – Literature Review

Abstract

Corn, also known as maize, is one of the most important cereal crops and a staple food in many countries worldwide. The United States is the largest producer and exporter of corn, and its use includes human consumption, animal feed, and industrial products. According to USDA, in 2021, about 92% of the corn planted in the USA was genetically modified corn (GM corn). GM corn has been genetically modified to resist pests, and herbicides, and to better combat environmental stressors such as droughts. It has been the subject of intense debate and scrutiny, with proponents claiming that GM corn has the potential to increase yields and reduce the use of harmful pesticides, while opponents argue that it poses unknown risks to the environment and human health. The intense debate is not only between scientists or people but also between whole countries. While in the USA GM corn is very popular and widespread, its cultivation in Mexico is banned, and recently Mexico announced that they plan to ban the import of GM corn. After the announcement, the USA entered into trade consultation and promised retaliatory U.S. tariffs against Mexico if no resolution was reached. It is surprising that the US would sanction a country that is considered the birthplace of corn, which has a rich historical and cultural relationship with corn, just because they want to continue in their tradition and do not want to use GM corn. The literature review focuses on whether the US is right to push aggressively other countries to buy their “superior” seeds and products, or if there is a reason why countries like Mexico should be cautious about GM corn.