by Janette Peel

Created on: March 01, 2009

The first genetically modified (GM) plants were produced in 1983, and a range of GM crops have since been created with characteristics such as resistance to herbicides, insects and viruses.

Soybean, maize and cotton are just some of the GM crops grown commercially in the US since 1996. In Europe their cultivation has been much more limited, primarily because of consumer resistance. And to date, no animal, fish or human genes have been approved for use in GM food anywhere in the world.

Genetic modification manipulates the characteristics of a crop by changing, inserting or switching off' genes. For example, a gene with resistance to a specific herbicide can be introduced into a plant so that its growth will be unaffected when an herbicide is sprayed to kill weeds. Or the gene responsible for ripening a fruit can be altered to delay the fruit from ripening too early.

Genetic modification differs from conventional breeding, which requires the multiplication of many generations of livestock or crops to attain a desired breed. Therefore, GM techniques provide faster, more exact results.

Biotechnology companies like US giant Monsanto are investing heavily into GM food research. In order to ensure that they receive financial benefit in return, they claim patent protection for any newly discovered genes and for the GM crops and seeds produced. This gives them a commercial monopoly and allows them to charge farmers license fees for any GM seed they use.

These companies are also exploring Genetic Use Restriction Technology, which ensures that farmers using their seed have to purchase further chemicals in order for the seed or plant to function.

Although investment in research is unlikely unless companies make a profit, this has led to objections that the poorest farmers are disadvantaged by being excluded from using GM technology.

Science and technology is fast taking over the food industry by creating super-crops and breeds of animals resistant to chemical herbicides, pests and diseases.

Potentially increased yields of GM crops that are resistant to pests and herbicides have many advantages. They need less cultivated land and reduce the amount of chemicals sprayed, so protecting local wildlife.

Modified crops that grow in dry areas or poor soil can greatly benefit desert-like regions, and the improved quality and quantity of food will alleviate hunger in expanding populations.

GM animals have more resistance to disease and produce less fatty meat, while GM plants can be grown

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