What is engineered crop for short?

Engineered crops, also known as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), refer to plants that have been genetically modified in a laboratory to enhance desired traits such as resistance to pests, diseases, or environmental stress, increased yield, or improved nutritional content. This is achieved by introducing specific genes from other organisms into the plant's DNA.

The process of engineering crops involves identifying the desired trait, isolating the gene responsible for that trait, and inserting it into the target plant's genome using techniques such as biolistics or agrobacterium-mediated transformation.

Engineered crops have been a subject of controversy, with concerns raised about their potential environmental and health impacts. Proponents argue that GMOs can help address global food security challenges by increasing crop yield and reducing the need for pesticides and fertilizers. However, opponents raise concerns about the unknown long-term effects of consuming GMOs, potential negative impacts on biodiversity, and the consolidation of seed ownership in the hands of a few large corporations.

Despite the controversies surrounding engineered crops, they continue to be widely used in agriculture around the world, with some estimates suggesting that over 90% of certain crops, such as soybeans and corn, are genetically modified.