Genetically Modified Food
=+=Andrew Holmes=+=
History
- The use of yeast to make bread and wine has been used for thousands of years.
- 1865 - Gregor Mendel's discoveries on the breeding of peas became the origin of modern genetics.
- Late 19th century farmers used the principals of heredity for breeding crops.
- 1954 - Scientists discover DNA Structure.
- 1998 First GM labeling rules. Introduced to provide customers with information of the use of GM ingredients in food.
Important People
- Gregor Mendel - Considered the father of modern genetics.
- Monsanto - A leading biotech company founded in 1901.
- Farmers - Use genetic engineering to modify their crops and make new discoveries.
First Experiments
Tobacco Plant
The first genetically modified plant was produced in 1983, using an antibiotic-resistant tobacco plant.
Tomato
In 1994, the transgenic Flavr Savr tomato was approved by the FDA for marketing in the US. The modification allowed the tomato to delay ripening after picking.
Recombinant Chymosin, used in cheese.
In the early 1990's, recombinant chymosin was approved for use in several countries, replacing rennet in cheese making.
Types of Technology and Methods
- Gene Transfer - Once a desired gene is selected, it can be cut out then transferred to the desired plant.
- Selective Breeding - Farmers can take two plants that have desired genes or traits and breed them to produce the favorable offspring.
Risks and Benefits
PROS/CAN PRODUCE
- Rice with added vitamins can help people get more vitamins that they are lacking.
- Potatoes can absorb less fat when fried.
- Tomatoes that soften slower.
- Strawberries that can withstand frost.
- Plants could be potentially dangerous to the environment.
- Sometimes unpredictable.
- Could produce poisonous crops or food.
Regulations
EPA
- Regulates bio pesticides. Verifies if a pesticide is safe enough to be used on crops
- Responsible for regulating the safety of genetically modified crops. Checks to make sure that the crop will not harm humans, animals, or the environment.