Five Controversial Crops: Analytical Discussion of Their Controversies

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Five Controversial Crops: Analytical Discussion of Their Controversies
Controversy Related to Maize
Source: (Aswell)
Introduction
Maize is one of the common food crops of the world; This plant is one of the core staple food crops of the world; in countries located in the Sub-Sahara, maize crop forms the most significant food crop of the region. This plant contains vital nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, iron, vitamin B, and minerals. The corn obtained from this plant is used to produce a variety of food items, such as porridge, pastes, and beers, or consumed in boiled or roasted form (PlantVillage). This crop has several natural and artificial varieties; according to detailed estimates, maize is available in more than 50 varieties (PlantVillage).
Description
Scientific name: The scientific name of this plant is Zea mays.
Origin
The maize plant originated in central Mexico millions of years ago but was domesticated very recently. According to safe estimates, people began using it domestically approximately 9000 years ago (Drury).
Characteristics
Social Importance
This is one of the most socially important crops in the world as collectively, with wheat and rice, it is responsible for the provision of 30% of daily calories to more than 4.5 billion people in the world. It is also an important source of animal feed (Shiferaw et al.).
Controversy
The core reason for controversy related to this food crop is the growing use of genetically modified varieties of maize as a food crop. Since 1994, the increase in the production of various forms of genetically modified varieties of maize has raised serious health-related concerns. Based on research studies, despite their benefits in terms of providing a higher yield, the long-term use of G.M. varieties of maize can cause serious health complications, including cancer; besides, these types of maize also produce harmful allergens. Moreover, G.M. maize is not labeled properly, and its production also disturbs the natural ecosystem by disrupting the natural process of pollination (Brown).
The Truth Behind the Controversy
G.M. maize is a better variety as it provides a much higher yield and is an insecticide and drought resistant. Conversely, the harms of G.M. maize are not supported by evidence-based research (Brown). Therefore, the use of G.M. maize is not a critical issue, as indicated by its growing consumption.
Different views of maize (PlantVillage)
Controversy Related to Soy
Soybean plant (Regina)
Introduction
The soybean plant is one of the commonest food crops in the world, as it is included in the top five food crops grown worldwide. It belongs to the legume family, and scientists believe that it is the cheapest source of vegetable protein and oil (Biswas). These grains contain a large number of useful nutrients; for instance, they have about 20.5% carbohydrates, 43.2% protein, 20.0% oils, 4.5% minerals, 3.7% fiber, and 8.1% water. Of its high oil content, it is regarded as the most important oilseed crop in the world (Biswas). The seeds of this plant are used to prepare several food products, including soymilk, infant formula, flour, and soy sauce. It is a...