By Andi Anderson
Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, are used in farming to improve crops. A GMO is a plant, animal, or microbe whose DNA is changed using biotechnology to develop desired traits like pest resistance or better growth.
GMOs help agriculture in many ways. For example, GM corn can naturally repel pests, which means farmers don’t need as many chemical insecticides.
Some GMO crops are also made to resist herbicides, helping farmers control weeds more easily while protecting the soil. Others are developed to resist plant diseases, ensuring crops survive and food supply stays strong.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), GMOs help farmers grow more food while using fewer natural resources like water and soil—this benefits both agriculture and the environment.
Only 12 GMO crops are approved for commercial use in the U.S. These include:
- Corn
- Soybeans
- Cotton
- Canola
- Alfalfa
- Sugar beets
- Rainbow papaya
- Potatoes (Ranger Russet and Atlantic)
- AquAdvantage Salmon
- Arctic Apples
- Squash
- Golden Rice
Even though GMOs are proven safe by the World Health Organization, National Academy of Sciences, and the FDA, some people still worry about using them.
Concerns include long-term health effects, environmental issues, and large companies having too much control over the food system. Others simply prefer natural or traditional farming practices.
Still, science supports that GMO foods on the market today are just as safe as non-GMO ones. Understanding GMOs can help people make informed choices about their food and farming.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Illinois, Crops, General