In 1996, Genetically Modified (GM) Crops were planted in six countries, according to the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute. The number of nations that use genetically modified crops climbed to 25 in 2009. It will be the 24th year since biotech crops were first commercialised, and the number of countries that grow genetically modified crops has climbed to 29.
The following are some instances of genetically engineered crops.
Corn that has been genetically modified to be resistant to larval pests.
Soybeans that have been genetically modified to be resistant to herbicides such as Roundup.
A genetically engineered maize crop that is utilised for animal feed and the production of high-fructose corn syrup
Indian authorities, along with nine other countries, have allowed the use of genetically modified cotton.
Canola oil derived from genetically modified seeds is used as a cooking oil and an emulsifier in processed goods.
Aspirants who are preparing for the IAS Exam would find this topic quite beneficial.
What is the process of creating genetically modified crops?
Biological modification, often known as genetic modification, is a technique that includes inserting DNA into the genome of an organism. In order to create a genetically modified plant, new DNA must be introduced into the cells of the plant. These cells are subsequently cultured in tissue culture, where they undergo transformation into plants and flower. The DNA in the seeds generated by these plants will be different from previous generations. The most popular method of introducing genes is by the use of gene guns. In what way do genetically modified crops serve a purpose?
Here is a list of the various uses for which genetically modified crops are used, as well as some of the more controversial ones.
- Increased yields
- Nutritional value has been improved.
- Increased shelf life
- Increase your ability to withstand droughts.
- Increase your ability to withstand insects and pests.
- Herbicide resistance has increased in recent years.
- Cultivation of genetically modified crops worldwide
The top five GM-producing countries are the United States, China, India, and Brazil (top producer of biotech crops)
Brazil is a country in South America (second position)
Argentina
India
Canada
These countries collectively account for nearly 90 percent of the total land area under GM crop cultivation.
The most widely planted genetically modified crops in the world are soybeans, maize, cotton, and canola, which have been engineered to be herbicide and insect resistant.
The Environmental Impact of Genetically Modified Crops
Approximately 17 million farmers, largely from poor countries, adopted biotech crops over a 23-year period (1996-2018), resulting in an improvement in their socio-economic position.
Beyond the economic benefits, the use of genetically modified crops has also contributed to food security, sustainable development, and the mitigation of climate change. The following are some of the advantages: it boosted crop productivity by 822 million tonnes; it conserved biodiversity by saving 231 million hectares of land; and it reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Adaptation of GM crops has resulted in a safer environment by preventing the release of 776 million kg of pesticides into the environment; GM crops have been helpful in reducing CO2 emissions by 23 billion kg, which is equivalent to taking 15.3 million cars off the road for one year (2018); and GM crops have also been helpful in alleviating poverty by improving the economic situation of 16-17 million small farmers and their families, totaling >65 million people, through improved agricultural practises (2018).
In what ways do genetically modified crops have an advantage over conventional crops?
The following are the benefits that the developed world has reaped from the use of genetically modified crops:
- Crop yields that are higher
- Farm expenses are being reduced.
- Farm profit has increased.
- Creating a safer environment
- More nutrient-dense food
The characteristics of first generation crops, such as insect resistance and herbicide tolerance, have proven to be effective in lowering farm-level production costs in recent years.
Increased nutritional and/or industrial properties are among the characteristics of second-generation genetically modified crops. These crops provide consumers with more immediate benefits.
The following are examples of marketable second generation crops:
- Apples that do not brown
- Potatoes that are resistant to bruising and have a low acrylamide content
- Maize cultivars with minimal phytic acid and high levels of critical amino acids are being developed.
- Oils derived from soybeans and canola are more nutritious.
Other genetically modified crops that are currently in the research and/or regulatory pipeline include:
Rice that has been fortified with iron, vitamins A and E, and lysine is used.
Inulin-rich potatoes and potatoes with a greater carbohydrate content
Eggplant that is resistant to insects
Vaccines that are edible are found in maize, bananas, and potatoes.
Nuts that are free of allergens
Conclusion
Electroporation, microinjection and agrobacterium are the other genetic engineering tools available to you. Genetic alterations can be classified into three categories, which are detailed below. Biologically transgenic plants are those that have had genes from other species put into their DNA. Cisgenic plants are those that are created utilising genes from the same species or closely related species.