Genetically modified foods (GM foods) are foods produced from organisms that have had changes introduced into their DNA using various methods of genetic engineering. Genetic engineering techniques allow for the introduction of new traits as well as greater control over traits when compared to previous methods, such as selective breeding and mutation breeding. Foods produced from or using GM organisms are often referred to as GM foods. The technology is often called “modern biotechnology” or “gene technology”, sometimes also “recombinant DNA technology” or “genetic engineering”.
GM crops are genetically modified plants that are used in agriculture. The first crops developed were used for animal or human food and provide resistance to certain pests, diseases, environmental conditions, and chemical treatments. Most of the GMO crops grown in the United States are used for animal food, and most GMO plants are used to make ingredients that are then used in other food products. Some of the foods that are available in the market include cotton, soybean, canola, potatoes, eggplant, strawberries, corn, tomatoes, lettuce, cantaloupe, and others.
Although GMOs are in a lot of the foods we eat, most of the GMO crops grown in the United States are used for animal food. Most GMO soy is used for food for animals, predominantly poultry and livestock, and making soybean oil. Cornstarch can be made with GMO corn, and sugar can be made with GMO sugar beets. Despite concerns about safety, the FDA, World Health Organization, and other leading health organizations say they are safe to eat.
