Are GM crops really the only way to feed the worlds growing population?
No. Gene technology is only one of many technologies available for efficient and environmentally-friendly production of crop and livestock to provide sufficient food to feed the worlds growing population – estimated to be 8 billion people (an extra 2 billion) in 25-30 years time. Gene technology can introduce desirable traits into crops and livestock so as to enhance conventional breeding techniques. These include giving crops greater ability to resist pests, diseases, drought, frost and waterlogging. They also include enhanced protein quality, healthier oils, and the addition or enhancement of essential nutrients such as iron. It also helps improve food storage, to reduce the one-quarter of the worlds food supply presently lost in the market chain. These are important for solving immediate problems of health and nutrition, food shortage and environmental degradation. CSIRO is working with research organisations overseas to address problems of food supply. For example, CSIRO Plant Indu
