Reactivating Federal Assault Weapons Ban Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Reactivating Federal Assault Weapons Ban - Essay Example One of the most important reasons as to why guns should be controlled is the regional gangs in the streets of U.S. Since the expiry of federal assault weapons act in 2004, it became easy for citizens to own guns. It also created legal loopholes for weapon merchants to sell guns to both deserving citizens and criminals as well. This created the biggest loophole in American safety since guns became easily accessible to regional gangs as well. Gangs have since then grown exponentially and use of guns become a common phenomenon. Murder, homicide, juvenile, burglary, and criminal shootings have soared. Although proponents of gun use argue that gangs will still have access to guns whether the act is in use or not, it is evident that when strict gun control laws are in place manufacture, supply and use considerably goes down (Valdez, 2003). The attack on government officials is on the rise. Licensing of guns makes it possible for both good and bad people to carry guns to places that threaten the safety of government officials. Political, governmental and leadership ideologies have always been a source of conflict. Such conflicts need to be solved in an amicable way using official channels. However, easy accessibility to guns has made it possible for groups of people who have conflicting ideologies with the leadership to pose a threat to the leadership. Indeed the history of America contains incidents of assassinations of some of the best American presidents. Founders of America created an excellent leadership infrastructure meant to protect America against factions. However, it is now evident that such freedom against factions is going to drains through easy accessibility of guns.

Get More with Organic Food Essay Example for Free

Get More with Organic Food Essay With the growing population across the globe, technology has been trying to intervene to produce more food for everyone. The concurrent food crisis assaults mans staple food source. Different departments have been called to help alleviate the problem. Scientists have been pushed to find a means to help the agriculture of these crops. They use chemicals, hormones and other genetic re-engineering to produce more. Unfortunately, this process also dilutes what one can get in consuming food. The nutritional value is then degraded to none. In this regard, this essay stand firm in the notion that organic food will deliver more benefits than non-organic food. There are definite reasons behind this claim. To affirm the claim, the benefits of both categories will be laid out. By utilizing this process, one will be able to have an educated stance regarding the debate. The simple question relies on whether countries will choose the science of quality or quantity. Organic Food Organic food is defined by the process by which it is produced. This process makes use of the natural means of growing produce. Natural fertilizers and traditional means of cultivating them are practiced. They do not make use of modern technology to reap these produce. This kind of food does not undergo any sort of preservation process to prolong its shelf life. This, of course, calls for a lot of advantages. These are (1) the nutritional values of the food are kept intact, (2) being chemical free renders consumers emancipated from substances that may inevitably incur illness to a person, and (3) it leaves soil free from residue brought by chemicals for the next crops to be planted. Since organic products are grown with the most natural means possible, most of the nutrients products naturally have are well maintained. When products undergo a process, to prolong its shelf life and enhance its flavor, before being sold to the market, it loses its nutrients at a certain point. The primary purpose of eating is to attain nutrients to sustain life. But with the numerous process one could only imagine that a lot of nutrients are taken away and drained to waste. The processes denied food of his primary purpose. The second benefit of organic food is that there are no chemicals used in it that may have potential harm on the people. Since it was grown in the most natural manner, it did not have to use chemicals to cultivate. These chemicals, even when the produce or livestock has been processed, it remains in its composition. When people eat these kinds of food, they in turn absorb these chemicals. But with organic food, the people are spared of this endeavor. They are also given the opportunity to live longer. The third benefit, and most probably one of the most important, of organic food is rather for the long term consequences. When chemicals are used to push produce to grow faster and bigger, these are also absorbed by the soil. When other crops are planted in the same area, these will also absorb the chemicals. The soil will continue to be contaminated unless unused for a long period of time. On the other hand, organic produce does not make use any kind of chemicals. The soil will be contaminant free. It likewise promotes biological diversity, as mentioned by an article from the website Medical Wellness Association. Some of the chemicals they expose to the environment harms more than the pests they want to remove. Non-Organic On the other hand, non-organic food also has its own benefits. This category of food refers to products, both crop and livestock, which have been enhanced by scientific advances. Its size, taste and quantity has been changed so that it is bigger, tastier, and more. Since these are enhanced products, it has been assumed that these are also better. It is not about finding means of making a profit. It is about trying to find answers as man surpasses what is. It is not creation, but intervention. It was designed to primarily make more for the hungry. With the help of technology, non-organic food is also able to reap the following benefits: (1) longer shelf life and better flavor, (2) it is relatively cheaper due to how it was produced, and (3) it could be the answer to world hunger. In certain parts of the world, the climate and technology prohibits some people from being able to store food for a long period of time. But with the help of advanced technology, they are given more than an opportunity. They were given an answer. In relation to the enhanced flavor, perhaps that is just an added benefit to the storage. With this advancement, individuals are able to have a hefty meal with just opening a can or heating a pack in a microwave. It has become a matter of convenience. Since non-organic food is also produced in great numbers, it becomes relatively cheaper than organic food. The process is easier and significantly takes a shorter time in manufacturing. With cheaper food, more people are able to purchase them. Especially in third world countries, availing food should be able to fit into their daily budget. In some countries, where a lot of people are at the brink of extreme poverty, it is important that they are provided with food with reasonable prices. In this light, with the above mentioned benefits of non-organic food, perhaps it has become the answer to world hunger. The world is getting over populated, and there is less food for everyone. There is food crisis simultaneously in different nations. On top of that, famine and drought in certain countries even forbade their people to even try to plant crops or raise livestocks. Some are dying because of hunger or illnesses brought by it. But because there are crops and livestock that are easily produced in great numbers, it could be that they will be able to finally give a spark to the hope of many hungry people. Organic products sometimes take too long to grow or produce that the rate of how population increases is not matched by the rate these crops and livestocks grow. The Better Option After laying out what each food category can offer, one should be able to find which is better. Organic food is a natural product free from chemicals. It also allows the environment to produce without the influences from synthetic substances that could be potentially harmful in the long run. On the other hand, non-organic food has longer shelf life and better taste. It is also relatively cheaper from the former category. More importantly, it silently declares to answer world hunger. Unfortunately, even if non-organic food presents a lot of promises to the people and the economy, organic food is still the better option. Feeding the people with non-organic food does not assure the extension of their lives than when they go hungry. Perhaps when they are fed, they will be able to survive. But they should not depend on it. When the chemicals get accumulated in their systems, it could result to terminal illnesses, like cancer. Yes, the growing population is being fed satisfactory amounts. However, what purpose does it serve when more harm is done? It harms not only the people, but also the environment. Even when the people get to eat, if the earth gets damaged due to these chemicals and residues, what will be left to the people? They are not hungry, but the inevitability of their choice will cope, and then devastation.

Industrial Training At Malaysian Agriculture Research Commerce Essay

Industrial Training At Malaysian Agriculture Research Commerce Essay This report briefly summarizes throughout my industrial training at Malaysian Agriculture Research and Development Institute Kuala Terengganu. The industrial training period began from 25th June 2012 until 16th August 2012 under the Department of Promotion and Technology Development. The objectives of this report are to provide details information about MARDI and its function especially for this MARDI Kuala Terengganu station. The briefing of tasks and activities throughout the training, challenges and solutions, knowledge and skills required, and as the training to expose student to the real workplace environment. This report also covers some of the activities and tasks during my training period there. The activities included in this report are specifically focus on the food processing and the technology, projects with entrepreneurs, the renovation and upgrade the Technology Information Center and also the still ongoing research on use of GenKimo fertilizer on hybrid sweet corn crops. The challenges such as given a task within constraints of time, less skills in operating the machine and less experience in food processing were had been solved. Some of the valuable experiences that I gained are on time management, communication skills, teamwork, food processing processes and creative thinking. TABLE OF CONTENT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Industrial training program is one of the elective courses which are the most chosen by students to make up their credit hours of kuliyyah in order for them to complete their undergraduate studies. Industrial training is an important program because it will provide the students with academic and professional education in their courses. With practical working experience the students will enhance their skill and capability hence they are exposed to the world of employment. Therefore, this report is prepared in order to fulfill the requirement of this training in order to know what the students actually do and get during their industrial training period. The objectives of this industrial training are to expose the students to the actual working environment, to enhance and supplement the knowledge and skills of the students, to develop the students in term of ability, competence and interpersonal relationship, to expose and familiarize the students to rules and regulations including safety, to develop the spirit of team work among the students and other working group members, and to assess the ability and competence of the students in preparing themselves to join the workforce upon the completion of their study This report is briefly summarizes and covers all the details information about this institute, the activities, the tasks and functions that have been done and also the product or services provided by the institute and throughout my industrial training for the eight weeks starting from 25th June 2012 until 16th August 2012 under the Department of Promotion and Technology Development in MARDI Kuala Terengganu. Malaysia Agriculture Research and Development Institute (MARDI) Kuala Terengganu is the main station in Terengganu state. It plays an important role as the references center for all parties especially for entrepreneurs in improving and establishing their products. Besides, this station also involved in the development of food processing technology based on fish and active in giving advice, producing new products, providing modern technology in food processing and monitoring and help the entrepreneurs market their products. The activities done in this station such, organize the development programs of IKS in agriculture and farming industry, activities connect industry with department, agency and industry parties that involve in process of technology transferring and innovation technology, training entrepreneurs through the test-bed technology facilities for fish-based products, execute activities related to development and transferring of technology to the target group especially public sector and small farmer, and do research in technology processing for fish-based products. As an industrial trainings student, I was asking to involve and follow the activities done by the station and at the same time gain knowledge while working on with the entrepreneurs. In addition, I also involve in the new research project of MARDI in testing the effectiveness of GenKimo fertilizer on hybrid sweet corn and also helping renovate and upgrade the Technology Information Center of the station. Thus, from all the activities and tasks given and done, I get a lot of knowledge about MARDI itself, the food processing technology, the machine operation, and learn how MARDI help the entrepreneur in marketing their products. ESTABLISHMENT AND BACKGROUND OF MARDI Introduction MARDI (Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute) is a statutory body known as the Agricultural Research Institute of Malaysia to carry out research work in agriculture, food, and agro-based. The MARDI research efforts have generated many new varieties and clones of plants, animal breeds and management systems, as well as the latest technology and post-harvest food processing have been developed for horticultural and livestock products. In addition to carrying out contract research and development (R D) projects, MARDI also provides technical and entrepreneurial development in food technology, agriculture and other fields related to the industry. The technical services provided in the form of advice, consultancy, technical training, laboratory services and quality assurance analysis, processing and product development and technology up-scaling. Establishment and background MARDI was established with the primary objective of generating and promoting new technology, appropriate and efficient for the development of food industry, agriculture and agro-based industries. MARDI Act 1969 has led to the establishment of MARDI on October 28, 1969. MARDI was fully operational in 1971. MARDI managed and driven in accordance with policies and regulations of the Board of Governors decided with the concurrence of Mardi Agriculture and Agro-based Industry. For financial matters, the Minister of Finance is also required. MARDI Scientific Council will ensure that the technical program MARDI level of quality and maximum effectiveness. Functions To conduct research in the scientific, technical, economic, and social construction of the production, use and processing of crops, livestock and food. To serve as a center for collecting and disseminating information and advisory services relating to matters of scientific, technical and food-related economic, agricultural and agro-based industries. To serve as a center providing specialist services in food, agriculture and agro-based. Provides for various types of training to meet the development needs of food, agriculture and agro-based. Assistance grants allocated for pure research and applied scientific, technical, and economic and development related to food, agriculture and agro-based industries. To maintain liaison or statutory body with public and private organizations as well as foreigners who are involved in scientific research, technical, economic and social issues related to food, agriculture and agro-based. To conduct research and commercial production. To develop, promote and exploit the research results. To serve the agricultural industry, food and agriculture based. Achievements Amendments to MARDI Act (1990) which allowing MARDI to be involved in commercialization activities and subsequently ensued by the establishment of MARDITech Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (1992). The Act was further amended (2002). Yielding MARDIs certification with ISO 9001:1994 for quality management (1998) and ISO quality cap was earned when MARDIs analytical laboratory was accredited with MS ISO/EC 17025 (2001), followed by MARDI being MS ISO 9001:2000 (2004). Establishment of MARDIs Test-Beds and incubators (2005). Embracing of K-management as an operational culture (2005). MARDI organizational restructuring (1st February 2002). Establishment of additional research stations including in Sabah and Sarawak, based on agro-climatic zones and also in Mali and Malawi in Africa. International recognition through collaborative networking with research organizations and universities in USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, Taiwan, China, ASEAN, and EU countries. Vision To be a world-renowned RD organization in food, agriculture and bio-based industries by 2015. Mission To create, innovate, transfer and apply knowledge, competencies and services to transform the national food, agriculture and bio-based industries towards increased commercialization and competitiveness. Customer Charter MARDI determined to produce appropriate technology, sustainable and viable and provide technology leadership to customers involved in the development of food and agriculture sector with dedication and professionalism. To achieve this, Mardi constantly strive to satisfy our customers by: Produce 40 year technology with the potential for increased scale, pioneer or commercialized for the benefit of the food, agriculture and related industries. Improving the performance of the target groups through the use of technology Providing services related to the development of quality food and agriculture sector and accredited based on international standards. Provide customer feedback on the status of application advice, information, training and expertise in technology-based Mardi within seven working days. Manage the payment for supplies and services within 14 days from the date of receipt of complete documents from the supplier. MARDI Quality Policy MARDI is committed to: Develop and promote appropriate and viable technology for customers in the food industry, agriculture and agro-based industries Comply with the requirements of quality management system and continually improve Once a year review objectives and quality policy at Management Review Meetings to ensure continuing suitability Disseminate this quality policy to all responsibility center (RC) in MARDI and displays them in Mardi intranet site. MARDI KUALA TERENGGANU Industry Profile There are four MARDIs stations in Terengganu which are: Kuala Terengganu MARDI station Jerangau MARDI station Kemaman MARDI station Besut MARDI station MARDI Kuala Terengganu in Manir began operating in 1990, it is formerly known as the Seri Culture MARDI Research Station Kuala Terengganu. This station research and operation is mainly under food processing and technology fish-based products. In 2000, fish processing station of Department of Food Technology MARDI at Jalan Balik Bukit, Kuala Terengganu had been transferred its operation to Kuala Terengganu MARDI station. Kuala Terengganu MARDI station is located 10km from Kuala Terengganu via Kuala Terengganu-Kelantan road and near to Pekan Manir. The main objectives of the establishment of this station are to support any activities of transferring and commercialization of technologies also research and innovation of technologies related to fish-based products. Besides, it also responsible to provide the infrastructure and supporting services to any transferring of technologies and study also expansion of income by optimizing the usage of natural resources. In addition, the main activities at this station are under the Food Technology Center, Promotion and Technology Development Center and Station Management Center. These three central undergo different researches and functions such the functions of Food Technology Center are do the research to produce new technology especially in the field of after-pharming and processing of fisheries products, provide technical training for food and agriculture entrepreneurs and staff of government departments and agencies, and provide advice to entrepreneurs. The function of Promotion and Technology Development Center is to promote activities, technology transfer and commercialization that has been produced by MARDI while the Station Management Center function is to manage all the activities of all four Terengganu MARDI stations and manage the administration systems. Functions of MARDI Kuala Terengganu station Promotion activities, transferring technology and commercialization that has been produced for the eastern MARDI using mechanization: Seminar, forum and industry dialog Exposure to mass media and publications Technical training Technical services Development of SMEs entrepreneurs Technology incubator services Support station by doing research on food technology especially development of fisheries products. Do research about food technology to formulate new technologies especially in the field of handling the harvest and processing of fisheries products. Supply the technical training for food and agriculture entrepreneurs to government employees and agencies. Provide the analysis service laboratory to do research for food industry. Placement staff to perform functions on technology transfer, research, management and administration. PROMOTION AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CENTER (MARDI KUALA TERENGGANU) Objectives To develop a technology transfer system can improve efficiency and effectiveness of technology innovation and commercialization of Mardi Increase and accelerate the use of technology among small farmers and traditional producers of agricultural products. To develop small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) in technology-based agricultural production and agro-based products. To introduce the new technology that provides Test-Bed food processing facilities and products for entrepreneurs. Programs Entrepreneur Development Program Entrepreneur Support Services Entrepreneur Guidance Service Adoption Scheme Special Projects of Entrepreneur Development Industry Liaison Program Technology promotion Technology Forum Industry Information Development and Technology Transfer Program Technology Development Technology Transfer Publishing Technology Test-Bed Technology System Test-bed technology system MARDI is one of the forms of support organized under the Entrepreneur Development Program. This system aims to improve the success of the small and medium enterprise in the production of food products through the use of technology. It was launched and opened up on 7th June 2012 by Y. Bhg Dato Mohd Hashim bin Abdullah, Chief Secretary Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry. The two main functions of this system are processing laboratory equipped with machinery, equipment and small-scale production facility for selected food products and stimulate technology innovation process among entrepreneurs who want to expand and improve the quality and competitiveness of products in the market. Services Offered in Test-Bed Production technology Handling machine and equipment Formulation and use of appropriate materials Packaging, designing, labeling and presenting of products Quality assessment and product analysis GMP and HACCP certificate Supporting technology Innovation DESCRIPTION OF TASKS AND ACTIVITIES Production of Keropok Lekor Overview: Some call them fish fritters, fish sausages or fish sticks but in Terengganu, they are called keropok. All districts produce their own keropok but the famous ones are none better than those found in Kampong Losong in Kuala Terengganu. Keropok lekor are actually made from processed fish meat mixed with salt and sagoo flour. This mixture is then rolled into sausage shaped around 6 to 10 inches long and immediately cooked. It is a great afternoon snack normally dipped in Terengganus equally famous chili sauce. They are made up of fish, flour and other ingredients. For Keropok Lekor, you can eat it in two ways. Deep fried or boiled. If you dont really like the fishy smell, then better to take the deep fried as sometime the boiled one will have some fishy smell, especially when they are no longer hot. Ingredients: Selayang meat Tamban meat Sagoo flour Sugar Salt Ajinomoto flavor Ice Methods: Minch the fish meats in surimi blocks cutting machine. Add some ice cubes and continue mincing the fish meat. Add sago flour and water. The mixture is stirred until it becomes soft dough in cross mixer machine. The mixture is made into a cylindrical shape by forming machine. Boil the water in versatile cookware. Add in one or two knotted pandan leaves. Drop the keropok lekor into the boiling water for about 30-35 minutes. Wait for it to cool before keep in freezer for storage and also can be eaten like that without fry. Notes: By using several machines in the processing, the making of keropok lekor become easier compared to traditional hand method. Besides, the shape of the keropok lekor looks nice and uniform. Production of Modern Frozen Sata and Otak-otak Overview: Sata is a concoction of fish meat with shallot and ginger paste, bask in coconut milk, are wrapped in banana leaf, folded into a shape of a cone, and stuck on the bamboo stick and barbequed over a low charcoal fire. Most famous are the sata from Kuala Kemaman. Through word of mouth, the place is flocked by locals as well as visitors from other states to get a taste of this delicious delicacy complete with coconut drinks. The stalls are actually the extension of villagers house and visitors can also get a taste of slow-paced traditional way of life. But today, sata can be available in frozen packaging. Rather than the usual mince fish otak-otak most people have accustomed to, this otak-otak or fish mousse is a fish based delicacy of which slices of fish are marinated and soaked in a thickly coated spices, mince shallots, onions, ginger, chilies and wrapped in banana leaves. The concoction is then wrapped in coconut leaf and cooked over a slow charcoal fire. Some places minced the fish meat with its spices while the famous ones in Kuala Kemaman still concocted the whole fish meat coated with spices. Some otak-otak use concoctions of prawn, squid or crab meat which gives choice of preferences to food lovers. Frozen otak-otak are becoming popular nowadays. Ingredients: (Sata Otak-otak) Fish meat Grated coconut Surimi Onion Sugar Chilies Salt Modified starch Ice Methods: All the ingredients are mixed up well by using the surimi blocks cutting machine and rotary mixer machine. The dough form is shaped by using nugget forming machine. The sata and otak-otak are baked in oven for about 20 minutes at 170-200Â °C. After that the sata and otak-otak are blast-freeze by using blast-freezing equipment. Then they are packing and keep under -20Â °C. Notes: Sata and otak-otak processing techniques have been improved with the use of appropriate machinery and proper packaging material suitable for freezing. The use of coconut milk powder reduces the fat content to 2%. The quality of frozen sata and otak-otak can be maintained up to 5 months at -20Â °C. Production of Soy Milk Overview: Soy milk is made by soaking soybeans, grinding them with water. The fluid which results after straining is called soy milk. Soy milk is most commonly found in aseptic cartons. Most of the soy milk available in the market is flavored and fortified with extra calcium or vitamins. Some producers add thickeners to their soy milk to give it a mouth feel of cows milk. Traditionally, soy milk has a beany taste which is well accepted by the Chinese, but less by the Western palate. Ingredients: Soy beans Water Sugar Pandan leaves Methods: Clean the soya beans and soak them in water before tossed. Grind the soy beans with water in ratio 1:7. Filter the mixture through a cheese cloth and recover the soy milk. Heat the soy milk till boiling point, add sugar and continue boiling for about 5 to 10 minutes. After cooling, the soy milk is ready and can be kept in the fridge for another 3 days. Notes: Can keep fresh soy milk for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This is totally preservative-free. Production of Tau foo fa Overview: Tau Fu Fa, also known as soy custard or silken tofu pudding is a silky-smooth Chinese dessert that seems to glide effortlessly down your throat. Some like it hot, some like it cold, and there are quite a few different ways to enjoy this dessert. The process of making the tau fu fa is almost similar to that of making soy bean drink, and what makes it different is the additional step of adding in a curdling agent to set the dish. Usually the curdling agent is either gypsum powder or glucono delta-lactone (GDL) mixed with a small amount of water and corn flour, and they work to harden the soy mixture and help it set. Ingredients: (Tau Foo Fa) Soy beans Water Glucono delta-lactone curdling agent Corn flour (Syrup) Rock sugar Knotted pandan leaves Water Methods: (Tau Foo Fa) Blend soy beans in batches with water in ratio 1:5. Strain the soy bean mixture through a muslin cloth into a large cooking pot and discard the residues. Bring soy bean milk to a boil over medium heat. Mix curdling agent, cornflour and water in another bowl. Pour mixture into boiling pot and mix thoroughly. Turn the heat off and cover the pot with a lid. Set aside in a heat proof container for approximately 30 minutes to let the mixture set. Do not open the lid until after 30 minutes. (Syrup) Mix rock sugar, pandan leaves and water in another smaller pot. Boil over low heat until mixture thickens to reflect syrup. (Tau Foo Fa Syrup) Dish out set Tau Foo Fa, layer by layer onto a bowl. Ensure you use a flat ladle or a turner to scoop out the layers. Drizzle with sugar syrup. Notes: I would advise using GDL powder, which is a naturally occurring food additive, instead of gypsum powder, which is made of calcium sulphate as it is said to be disadvantageous to our health. Production of Fish Burger (Tilapia) Overview: Ingredients: Methods: Notes: Production of Breaded Fish Fillet and Cutlet (Tilapia) Overview: Ingredients: Methods: Notes: Activities to Meet MARDI Adopted Entrepreneurs Overview: Meet the MARDI adopted entrepreneurs to see their business progress and to make sure that they follow MARDI evaluation and instructions. Apart from that, MARDI need to ask the entrepreneurs about their problems or difficulties and help them by giving they advise, information, and together find solutions for their problems. Entrepreneurs problems: SINKU Food Industries Sdn. Bhd. Market improved, ask MARDI to develop MA center auto keropok lekor cutting machine. Ask MARDI to contact the SME MARDI to overcome the difficulties to get the GMP for modification the cool room which is delayed due to no provision. NURIQ Enterprise Experiencing problems in obtaining halal certification for lack of capital for plant modifications. In the process of obtaining a halal certificate Malaysia. Hidayah Mohd Nasir Enterprise Ask MARDI to help to solve problems regarding soft texture of cincau. Ask for fried tofu course. BM Food Industries Sdn. Bhd. HACCP problems no writing explanation on sauce cooking temperature of 90-95 degrees Celsius, ask MARDI for the analysis of why the protein content in the oyster sauce is reduced. MADURA Industries Sdn. Bhd. Facing problems in the product the Sparkling Juice contain precipitate and cloudy. Activities in Test-Bed by Entrepreneurs Overview: AROMA WARISAN Entrepreneur: Ahmad Sabri Omar Product: Keropok lekor Duration: 3 months POK NOR SATA Entrepreneur: Mohd Sahir bin Mohd Nor Duration: 3 months Project of Sweet Corn Hibrimas Tested Using GenKimo Fertilizer Overview: Sweet corn hibrimas is one of the successful products from MARDI. We have an opportunity to visit to the Corn Farm located at area of Kuala Berang at twice. The first visit was to employ the Genkimo fertilizer and examine the effect to the corn trees. This type of fertilizer was applied immediately afler planted the tree. Then, the second visit was to measure the height of corn tree that have used Genkimo fertilizer. Under research: Project Title Survey of Farmers acceptance of Organic Fertilizer (GENKiMO) application on sweet corn field in Kuala Berang, Terengganu. Project Objective To investigate the effectiveness of using GENKiMO bio-organic fertilizer in improving the growth of Hibrimas among selected farmers To evaluate the viabilty of the projects Brief Description of Project (please include justification, key areas of research to be undertaken, and related research if any) GENKiMO is a biotechnology product, which means healthy probiotic microorganisms. It is a type of probiotic that contains live microorganisms which are mainly comprised of small bacteria such as lactobacillus-celled, yeast and photosynthetic bacteria. GENKiMO produced by natural fermentation and characterization using 100% of the local environment. Beneficial bacteria / effective, enzymes and acids help to increase the organic matter of internal health of livestock, improve environmental quality, enhance growth and disease resistance of plant growth, accelerate the decomposition of organic forces, restoring soil fertility and others. Background of Hibrimas: In 2008, MARDI collaborated with Green world genetics (GWG) and tropical fruit network (TFNET). The main purpose of this collaboration was is to evaluate 26 sweet corn hybrids for fresh consumption as well as canning purposes. From the preliminary evaluation, five potential sweet corn hybrids were selected. Selection were made based on the early maturing hybrid (65-68 days after planting), high yield (average yield of 250-300 g/cob), golden colored kernel with good kernel arrangement and uniform shape cob. From further evaluation over locations, the sweet 601 was found to the most leaf blight and the sweetness is within the range 14-15 brix. Besides, it also has tropical sweet corn hybrids which have the sh2 gene for sweetness. Potential of Commercialization: The mature Hibrimas are suitable for fresh consumption besides they also can be applying to many ways of cooking like boiling, grilling or steaming. However for hibrimas the most suitable way of cooking is by steaming fro not more than 10 minutes. This is to ensure the sweetness of hibrimas is retained. The kernel of the sweet corn can also be eaten as corn in cup or canned. Baby corn can also be harvested and eaten as vegetable. After harvesting the cob, the whole plant can be harvested and transformed into silage for animal feed or as composed fertilizer. Advantages of Hibrimas Corn: Hibrimas tree grows at an altitude of 200-220 cm capable of high productivity with an orderly arrangement of content. Good farming practices, proper drainage system and application of appropriate fertilization, capable high yield. Resistant to leaf blight disease. Able to provide results that many of the nearly 22.000 hectares of land and increase productivity because it is more fruitful in a shorter period of about 68 days after planting. CHALLENGES SOLUTIONS Along 8 weeks of internship, I have faced many challenges which need me to go through it and overcome them as quickly and proactively. The problems came sometimes can be handle but sometimes cannot. The most challenges I had faced was the skill to operate the machines that are used in food processing. Besides, the lack of knowledge about food processing cause by different study or course I sit for in university limit my actions and make me feel burdensome or boring. In addition, the working environment here is a bit challenging because I need to communicate and working together with the other senior staffs, need to do new things that I never done before this especially in food handling process which I had never learned before. At the same time, I need to stand with some of the male staffs whom like to tease five of us include me, the industrial training students which sometimes a bit annoying. The unpleasant stories heard from the staffs also one of the challengers to me. Although there are several challengers coming, I had never give up but always take it easy and manageable and see it from the positive side. Hence, the challengers in handling the machines and the tasks given which are likely not related to my study, I take it as easy and new matters in order to increase my experiences and knowledge thus, I can adapt with these situations quickly. Apart from that, the teasing and unpleasant stories heard, I take it as a spirit to prove them that I can do it and Im here not only to be an observer. I tried my best to involve in the activities and followed all the instructions and task given. Usually, if I faced a problem regarding my tasks, I would refer to my supervisor, En. Mohd Faiz bin Musa and other senior assistants and staffs that have many experiences and knowledge. They were always ready to help me so; I learn many new things from them and try to become creative thinking and ready to solve problems. The understanding in many fields of knowledge is not waste because it is important as a backup for us to face in everyday life and works soon. KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS THAT HAVE BEEN ACQUIRED Throughout the industrial training period, I have learned a lot of new knowledge and application which I did not get from my study in kuliyyah before. Here, I was assigned to do food processing of fish-based products, handled machines, involved in sensory evaluation and analyze the data, involved in new still ongoing research on the use and effect of GenKimo fertilizers on the hybrid sweet corn crops compared to other organic and chemical fertilizers and also some office tasks. Besides, I was participated in project with entrepreneurs for varieties of food processing and development. In term of skills, I learned to operate machines with standard of operation procedure (SOP). This includes ho

sathf Satire of The Grangerfords and Pap :: Adventures Huckleberry Huck Finn Essays

Satire of The Grangerfords and Pap In Mark Twain’s novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the Grangerfords and Pap are two of the characters who are used by Twain to condemn civilized society. Twain employs satire to express his belief that â€Å"civilized† society is neither moral, ethical, nor civilized.   Exaggeration, stereotyping, and irony are used throughout the story to satirize and to expose the Grangerfords as the typical southern aristocrats and pap as the typical drunken â€Å"white trash.†      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After a ferryboat accident, Huck seems to lose his slave companion Jim after coming ashore. Huck then is introduced to Buck Grangerford (about the same age as Huck) and is allowed to stay in the Grangerford household. The Grangerford family consists of Buck, who is a young adventurous boy, Emmiline, a fourteen-year-old who was dead girl, Bob, Tom, Miss Charlotte, and Miss Sophia. The Grangerfords showed all the signs of being upper class by having an extremely nice house, acting properly, and each member of the family had their own servant. Eventually it becomes apparent to Huck that the Grangerfords are feuding with a neighboring household, the Sheperdsons; this seems to be the central angle Twain uses to satire.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The chapters dealing with the Grangerford and Sheperdson feud allow Twain to satire aspects of civilized culture. The main aspect he satirizes is the feud itself. The Grangerfords being the representatives of civilization, Twain reveals the senseless brutality and needless slaughter involved in their arbitrary concept of honor. For Twain, such a feud goes against his common sense and anything that violated his common sense was crazy. The feud has gone on so long hat the people don’t even know why they are fighting; yet, embedded in the feud are artificial concepts of civilized behavior. For Example, Mr. Grangerford tells Buck that he shouldn’t shoot from behind the bush but he should step out into the road to kill a Sheperdson. Also there is a sense of irony because why would such a civilized family be in a feud that they can’t remember the origin of. Another aspect of it is the Grangeford’s use of hypocrisy. The G rangerfords were â€Å"church goers† and in one sermon given by Mr. Grangerford he speaks of brotherly love, this while feuding with a family for a reason they don’t even remember.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Pap, or Huck’s father, is an excellent example of Twain’s stereotyping, superior characterizations, and his irony. sathf Satire of The Grangerfords and Pap :: Adventures Huckleberry Huck Finn Essays Satire of The Grangerfords and Pap In Mark Twain’s novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the Grangerfords and Pap are two of the characters who are used by Twain to condemn civilized society. Twain employs satire to express his belief that â€Å"civilized† society is neither moral, ethical, nor civilized.   Exaggeration, stereotyping, and irony are used throughout the story to satirize and to expose the Grangerfords as the typical southern aristocrats and pap as the typical drunken â€Å"white trash.†      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After a ferryboat accident, Huck seems to lose his slave companion Jim after coming ashore. Huck then is introduced to Buck Grangerford (about the same age as Huck) and is allowed to stay in the Grangerford household. The Grangerford family consists of Buck, who is a young adventurous boy, Emmiline, a fourteen-year-old who was dead girl, Bob, Tom, Miss Charlotte, and Miss Sophia. The Grangerfords showed all the signs of being upper class by having an extremely nice house, acting properly, and each member of the family had their own servant. Eventually it becomes apparent to Huck that the Grangerfords are feuding with a neighboring household, the Sheperdsons; this seems to be the central angle Twain uses to satire.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The chapters dealing with the Grangerford and Sheperdson feud allow Twain to satire aspects of civilized culture. The main aspect he satirizes is the feud itself. The Grangerfords being the representatives of civilization, Twain reveals the senseless brutality and needless slaughter involved in their arbitrary concept of honor. For Twain, such a feud goes against his common sense and anything that violated his common sense was crazy. The feud has gone on so long hat the people don’t even know why they are fighting; yet, embedded in the feud are artificial concepts of civilized behavior. For Example, Mr. Grangerford tells Buck that he shouldn’t shoot from behind the bush but he should step out into the road to kill a Sheperdson. Also there is a sense of irony because why would such a civilized family be in a feud that they can’t remember the origin of. Another aspect of it is the Grangeford’s use of hypocrisy. The G rangerfords were â€Å"church goers† and in one sermon given by Mr. Grangerford he speaks of brotherly love, this while feuding with a family for a reason they don’t even remember.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Pap, or Huck’s father, is an excellent example of Twain’s stereotyping, superior characterizations, and his irony.

Shareholder vs Stakeholder vs Market Failure’s Model

Business and ethics are often considered as opposite ends of a magnet, one in the means of seeking profit and other with the common assumption of refraining from profit maximization; so the question become is business ethics really an oxymoron? The usual perception of business ethics is very poor and pessimistic as many corporate executives say one thing yet do another. Although the maximization of self-interest and profit seeking is what drives the economy forward, but how should one’s actions be justified, is it ok to do as you wish as long as the law permits?Business managers along with other professionals have sets of ethical codes laid out and are to be followed. There is the bar set in place to monitor the practices of each individual lawyer; medical association for doctors as they perform medicine; and a ring to be worn to constantly remind the engineers of their professionalism and the potential consequences of their work (Heath). Managers on the other hand do not have an association to oversee the decisions they make, whether they are permissible by law or meet the moral obligations.However not having the standards on paper does not mean there aren’t any to be followed. In order to make justification for the type of behaviours business managers have and to outline the appropriate actions they should take, many ethical theories have been developed since. There are three that best represent the key perspectives in this matter; Friedman’s Shareholder theory, Freeman’s Stakeholder theory and Heath’s Market Failure Model of business ethics (Heath).Each of them is the pillars of which many other theories are based on but have very different and opposite views. The Shareholder theory suggests that manager has fiduciary duties to the shareholders only and must maximize profits as long as the law permits. The Stakeholder theory on the other hand suggests that managers have fiduciary duties to all stakeholders whom are positive ly or negatively affected by the decisions of the firm; shareholders are only of the stakeholders and their benefits cannot account for all.The making of one group’s benefits can only be made in conjunction of making all other stakeholders better too; shareholders are no more special than the suppliers, customers, employees and communities. Both the Stakeholder and Shareholder’s theories are biased towards different ends, one suggesting profits to be maximized for one group while the other stating that profits should be common good for all. Furthermore, the Market Failure Model of business ethics comes in between the two, yet containing arguments of both but in revised versions.I will argue in this paper that the Market Failure Model is the one that best describes the causes and effects of the business environment we have today and the role ethics play within it. First, an extraction and analysis of the Market Failure Model will be conducted and be used to explain why it is the best fit for the current business environment and ethics. I will then explain the shortfalls of the Shareholder and Stakeholder theories and why they lack considerations on a broader scope. Market Failure Model Market failure is the situation when the competitive market fails to provide an efficient outcome.In order for an efficient allocation of resources, there must be the absence of externalities, symmetrical information between buyers and sellers, insurance markets, and utility maximizing agents whom are rational when making decisions (Heath). However in the real world, the above conditions are rarely met and thus the idea of a perfect market becomes only ideal in theory but impractical in reality. In response to such failure in the market, two corrective phenomenons exist. The first being the creation of corporations which is organized in a system of hierarchy.Managers have fiduciary duty to follow legal as well as moral constraints to achieve profit maximization for members in the hierarchy, in this case the shareholders. Moreover, in order to achieve the highest profits for anyone in the market, they will need to compete in prices as well as product innovation. Many historical scenarios has proven that competition leads to economic advancements where without it would result in economic stagnation. China and India had been communist states in the past where there were minimum price competition and product innovations, the government had full control and attempted to effectively allocate resources.However such intervention only led to full economic stagnation and poverty for its people. By the late 80s, both the Chinese and India government returned control to the market itself where competition for profit resumed and thus the economies began to advance and has brought prosperity upon its people. This not only proved profit seeking, price competition in the market is rather healthy for the economy but also concluded that government interventions in the market can create unneeded deadweight loss.The second response to Market Failure involves preservation of the market transaction and is subject to legal and regulatory constraints (Heath). In a competing market, there are various strategies firms may take to maximize their profits. Strategies that involve only of lower prices, better quality and product innovation that would exist in perfect completion are referred to as preferred strategies whereas the ones involving pollution, misleading advertising, sale of products with hidden defects are called non-preferred strategies (Heath).From the Market Failure’s perspective, the ethical firms will refrain from using non-preferred strategies even if they are allowable by the loophole of the law and regulations. These firms seek non-preferred strategies because they bring easy and quick forms of profits, but it is also short lasting. â€Å"Misleading advertising stands to false advertising as deception does to fraud† (Heath). When firms adopt misleading advertisement for its products, it will bring short term profits before consumers realize they are being deceived.However when consumers do acknowledge the unethical behaviours of the business, they will switch products and by the word of mouth spread unfavourable comments of the firm; thus in the long run, such business behaviour is not practical as bad reputation leads to loss of sales and eventual closedown of operations. Profit seeking often bears negative conceptions due to the frequent exploitation of the market and flaws of the legal and regulatory systems.These firms fail to consider the moral obligations they must also endure. The analogy between â€Å"orporate social responsibility† and â€Å"Good sportsmanship† effectively compares and applies such concept. Having good sportsmanship does not only include not breaking the rules of the game but also refraining from exploiting the loopholes and flaws of the regulations. Taki ng basketball for example, unavoidable physical contact will occur during the game; however one should avoid purposely injuring other players just to win.Although certain teams do adopt such tactics like those firms using non-preferred strategies to make money, but most top ranked teams along with the most reputable firms still win by applying only of the preferred strategies. Attack on Shareholder’s Theory Milton Friedman’ Shareholder theory argues that there is a fiduciary relationship between the managers and shareholders; managers by all means possible and permissible by law, must maximize profits (Friedman). However recent corporate scandals proof otherwise.The case of Enron for example, where corporate CEO and president along with other top executives engaged in a sequence of deception behaviours to achieve the maximum profit, not for shareholders but for themselves. Even on the verge of bankruptcy, these top managers froze the shares held by common shareholders so they could sell out all their shares while everyone else will suffer the drop in price. This proved the willingness to break the law never mind moral obligations, in order to maximize the self-interests of the managers themselves.It is mistaken to trust the strength of the fiduciary relationship between managers and shareholders where the shareholders are without protection. One may argue that shareholders can simply fire the irresponsible manager, but as Enron proves, these managers can easily cheat shareholders without being found out until it is too late. Another shortfall of the Shareholder theory is the inconsideration for others who are also affected by the firm’s decisions. Lockean argues that shareholders are entitled to the profits as employee deserves their wages, but it is unconvincing because it only defines the legal obligations but not the moral (Heath). We have no legal obligation to give but do not mean we have no moral obligation to give to charity†( Heath) This quote from Heath suggests that even though it is not by law that we must be moral and has concerns for other, but it doesn’t mean there aren’t any moral and ethical codes to be followed. Attack on Stakeholder Theory The Stakeholder theory compared to the Shareholder theory argues that managers have fiduciary duties to everyone who are affected by decisions of the firm, including suppliers, customers, employees and many others (Freeman).It is true that consideration for these stakeholders are important when making business decisions however it doesn’t mean managers have fiduciary duties to all. Managers in corporations are trusted directly of property rights of shareholders with no alternatives and minimum protection against uncertainties. Suppliers, customers, employees and other stakeholder on the other hand have the ability to choose whether they are to be affected by the corporation.If suppliers refuse to agree to conditions and prices offered by firm, they may wish to supply to other firms instead; when customers refuse to pay for certain products or cannot agree to values (values referred to the corporate operations and its effects in the society) offered by the firm, they may choose not to purchase it’s products; and lastly employees may choose to resign from his position when conflict of interest and ethical concerns occur or may blow the whistle and expose the wrong doings of the firm to the public.Each group of stakeholders have their own alternatives in dealing with managers decisions and do not have property rights already invested and paid to managers for the outcomes of their performance thus they cannot be considered as having fiduciary relationships with managers. The major flaw of the stakeholder theory is that it assumes the stakeholders are not capable of making their own rational decisions and has left the responsibility of their wellbeing in the hands of others.The second shortfall of the Stakeholderà ¢â‚¬â„¢s theory is its short-term and narrow scope view of the matter and failed to consider the long-term strategies of the firm and wellbeing of the people. Walmart has been growing exponentially in recent years, but has also been experiencing much negative publicity like poor wages and benefits for its employees. When worker aren’t paid enough, the most common solution they seek is from the managers raising their wages.However most of these workers fail to realize they are only being paid according to their skill sets, rather than holding the managers and corporation responsible they should instead reflect on themselves and obtain higher education or more specialized skills to be worthy of their pay. If workers demand two or three dollars increase of their wage, they also need to consider the overall effects on the firm and not just themselves; it is not about a little more on one person’s pay cheque but the effect of thousands of workers and the incremental costs t hat a firm will bear.The market is competitive in nature, when firms fail to make profits, it will cease in existence in the long run. When the firm becomes bankrupt, all employees will lose their jobs and whom should be held responsible for that? Conclusion In conclusion, all three theories share different views of business ethics and the role of managers should take in it. Shareholder theory argues managers have fiduciary duty to shareholders only and should seek to maximize profits as long as it’s legally permissible; Stakeholder theory states managers have fiduciary duty to all stakeholders and must make ecisions so when certain stakeholders are made better off, the others involved must also be better than their original state. Both of these theories tries to outline what behaviours managers should take on a biased perspective yet fails to fit actual economic and market characteristics. Heath’s market failure model on the other hand suggests that managers do have f iduciary duties to shareholder only but should make decisions meeting their moral obligations as well, meaning adopting strategies that best benefit the firm and the society in the long run.Certain firms may donate to charity because they feel morally responsible or perhaps to cut taxes or simply for publicity; however in the overall wellbeing of the society, intentions matter but results matter even more. Firms that adopt non-preferred strategies will eventually break laws or be publicly criticized, will suffer losses in sale and be eliminated by firms applying preferred strategies because the market works to correct itself of its failures. Bibliography Heath, J. (n. d. ). Business ethics without stakeholders.In F. Allhoff & A. Vaidya (Eds. ), Business in Ethical Focus: An Anthology (pp. 110-126). Peterborough: Broadview. Friedman, M. F. (n. d. ). The social responsibility of business is to increase its profits. In A. Allhoff & A. Vaidya (Eds. ), Business in Ethical Focus: An Antho logy(pp. 65-69). Peterborough: Broadview. Freeman, E. F. (n. d. ). A stakeholder theory of the modern corporation. In A. Allhoff & A. Vaidya (Eds. ),Business in Ethical Focus: An Anthology (pp. 69-78). Peterborough: Broadview.

Genetically Modified Foods Essay

The term GM (genetically modified) food has gained controversy in the last few years, but in the first place we have to understand what GM food is and how it works, the term GM foods or GMOs (genetically-modified organisms) is used when we refer to crop plants using different molecular biology techniques or methods to change their properties, such as to enhance their resistance to herbicides, improve nutritional content, and other properties. This seems great, but why there are people who disapprove the development and consumption of GM foods? Modifying plant genetics can have many benefits, because of the use of precise and accurate molecular techniques, the main difference between traditional breeding techniques which are not so accurate and need more time to develop, are the molecular methods that are used to modify plants. Genetic engineering can change plants genes in a short time, for example taking out a plant gene that gives low temperature resistance to the plant and insert it into another plant. The uses and varieties we can achieve are immense and can end with great results. â€Å"The world population has topped 7. 5 billion people and is predicted to double in the next 50 years. Ensuring an adequate food supply for this booming population is going to be a major challenge in the years to come. GM foods promise to meet this need in a number of ways† (B. Whitman, 2000). The most common uses of genetic engineering in plants are herbicide tolerance, disease resistance, cold tolerance, drought & salinity resistance, nutrition, pharmaceuticals, etc. It could help even to stop malnutrition and in some years to reduce world food shortage, because the possibilities are wide. Why do people not approve of the use and consumption of these products? â€Å"Environmental activists, religious organizations, public interest groups, professional associations and other scientists and government officials have all raised concerns about GM foods, and criticized agribusiness for pursuing profit without concern for potential hazards, and the government for failing to exercise adequate regulatory oversight†. (B. Whitman, 2000). The principal reasons people disapprove GM foods are given in three main oppositions are separated into three categories, and they should not be concealed , first of all the environmental hazards as harming other organisms, reducing pesticides or herbicides effects and wrong targeting in genetic transfer (wrong species); also the human health stability and the risks genetically modifications and engineering can cause and finally the economic implications of the development and studies GM foods require. Currently, science is fastly evolving and the entire world is part of it and has to decide about changes. This is a subject we cannot be shelved. The problems GM foods may cause needs to be solved and improve constantly, because we are currently looking for solutions to the future and this may be one of them. So the challenges need to be solved and overpassed, with the required caution of avoiding damage to humans and environments, but it is clear we cannot ignore this enormous and potential technology â€Å"Genetically-modified foods have the potential to solve many of the world’s hunger and malnutrition problems, and to help protect and preserve the environment by increasing yield and reducing reliance upon chemical pesticides and herbicides. † (SC-S. SI) Sources ACS SYMPOSIUM SERIES. (1995, August). Genetically Modified Foods . Retrieved Noviembre 2013, from Safety Issues: http://pubs. acs. org/doi/pdfplus/10. 1021/bk-1995-0605. fw001 B. Whitman, D. (2000, April). Genetically Modified Foods: Harmful or Helpful? Retrieved November 2013, from http://www. csa. com/discoveryguides/gmfood/overview. php SC-S. SI. (n. d. ). GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOOD †¦ Is It Safe to Eat? Retrieved November 20, 2013, from http://www. sc-s. si/blog/wp-content/gm-foods-zp. pdf.