Question

Given below are two statements.
Statement I - GMO crops could potentially have negative effects on human health and natural biodiversity.
Statement II - Insertion of a gene from Brazil nut to increase the production of methionine in soyabean has caused allergic reaction to those who have nut allergies.
In the light of above statements, choose the correct option given below:

• A. Both statement I and statement II are correct.
• B. Both statement I and statement II are incorrect.
• C. Statement I is correct but statement II is incorrect.
• D. Statement I is incorrect but statement II is correct.

Hint:

GMO concern alert: Always remember examples like Brazil nut gene in soybean to recall allergenicity risks in biotechnology questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. While GMOs offer advantages, they also raise concerns regarding health and environmental safety.

Step 1: Analyze Statement I. GMO crops may pose potential risks such as:
• Allergenicity in humans
• Gene transfer to wild species affecting biodiversity
• Development of resistant pests or weeds Thus, GMO crops could have negative effects on human health and biodiversity.
Statement I is correct.

Step 2: Analyze Statement II. A well-known example involves the transfer of a gene from Brazil nut into soybean to improve its methionine content. However, it was found that this caused allergic reactions in individuals allergic to Brazil nuts. Thus, this is a real case demonstrating allergenicity due to genetic modification.
Statement II is correct.

Step 3: Conclusion. Both statements are correct, hence: \[ \text{Both statement I and statement II are correct} \]