What are transgenic crops, and how are they created?
Transgenic crops are crops that have undergone genetic modification. Lets take a simplified look at the process. Biotech scientists are able to isolate and insert genes that have a desirable characteristic from one living thing into another. A desirable genetic trait might be to enhance nutritional value, pesticide and/or herbicide resistance, or the ability to ward off plant viruses. The host plant into which the gene is transferred soon takes on that desired trait. That crop is a transgenic crop. Do genes have to be transferred from the same species or organism? No. Genes can be transferred from totally unrelated species or organisms, for example, that gene that helps Arctic salmon endure cold being transferred into a tomato plant. What types of edible plants have been genetically engineered and why? Broccoli, melons, raspberries, and tropical fruits, peas, peppers, and tomatoes have been genetically modified to control ripening. This helps to improve shelf life and the quality of th
