MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Genetically modified or genetically engineered organisms (GM/EOs) have several applications particularly in agricultural biotechnology and food-processing. One such application my Gemstone Team is performing research on is the use of GMOs to nutritionally enhance foods with omega-3 fatty acids. As evidenced through anecdotal information, members of my Gemstone team have expressed difficulty in discussing our project dealing with GMOs to a lay audience. Specifically, the difficulties include a general reluctance to hear about the potential benefits of our project once GMO’s are mentioned. A proposed reason for said difficulty is that GMOs used for agricultural biotechnology and food-processing raise fundamental questions in the public about issues of social values, nature, technological development. Furthermore, public views of GMOS are greatly influenced by media content and the media’s association of GMO’s with risks like allergens and environmental hazards has negatively impacted public opinion. Research, however, suggests that individuals may be more receptive to controversial topics such as GMOs if they are expressed in a way that highlights their potential to directly benefit the listener. Research also suggests that open discussion of the risks of GMOs may instill further trust in the listener and increase their willingness to hear more information. As such, this paper will serve as a guide for my Gemstone Team on how to discuss our project with a lay audience. The guide will specifically focus on discussing the health benefits of increased omega-3 fatty acid intake and the low risk application of our GMO to food products.

WC: 249
Voice: Mainly informal with a formal introduction
Citation Style: Formal citations throughout in APA style

READER’S PROFILE: I imagine a reader who has some background knowledge about the science of GMOs but also likes to get her information from common media outlets. She’s also really interested in her health and tries to be environmentally-conscious.

READER’S RESPONSE: Although I’ve taken some introductory biology courses and I have some information about GMOs and how genes work, I’m still a little worried that they may harm the environment or worsen allergies. I typically trust sources that seem to be honest about the risks associated with something and most of my sources have said that GMOs may be bad for your health. Reputable sources have also said that omega-3 fatty acids are good for your cardiovascular and brain health and I care greatly about my health. It would be nice to be able to get omega-3 from different types of food. I might consider getting my omega-3 from a GMO source if the risks are openly disclosed. For instance, people promote fish as a source of omega-3 but don’t discuss the harms of mercury poisoning.

E,I like how this document is an "extra" Gemstone need so that you can talk intelligently and calmly about your work.

This Ted talk should be helpful to set the tone and model how to talk about GMOS:
https://www.ted.com/talks/pamela_ronald_the_case_for_engineering_our_food

At the end of your document, you might address the area of concern about GMOS, which is not really the food to eat. Rather, larger and more subtle effects in the environment that are part of the profile of SOME GMOS.
https://blogs.umass.edu/natsci397a-eross/environmental-impact-of-gmos/

Another way to make the case is that without GMO foods, mass starvation would result in places with relative food security.

E, this is going to be tricky. Come and see me with what you are writing, to keep this manageable.