GMO Foods

Definition

GMO Foods are food products derived from organisms whose genetic material has been modified in a way that does not occur naturally, typically to improve yield, resistance to pests, or nutritional content.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in food refer to plants, animals, or microorganisms that have had their genetic code altered through genetic engineering. This process involves the manipulation of genes using biotechnology to exhibit desired traits such as resistance to pests, herbicides, or improved nutritional profiles.

Benefits

• Increased crop yields and agricultural efficiency.
• Enhanced nutritional content of food products.
• Improved resistance to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

Examples

• Corn that is resistant to certain pests.
• Soybeans modified for herbicide tolerance.
• Golden Rice enriched with Vitamin A.

Additional Information

• Known issues: Some concerns include potential environmental effects, allergenicity, and antibiotic resistance.

Related Terms

• Non-GMO Foods

References

• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) | Learn Science at Scitable
• GMO Crops, Animal Food, and Beyond | FDA