I’m curious, maybe someone can help me. Just what is the definition of genetically engineered crops? Aren’t all hybrids genetically engineered? Does this include crops which were modified in fields selectively over several generations to have certain traits (color, taste, growing season)? Are any food crops grown today the same genetically as they were say 1000 years ago?
I’m just confused about what is and is not genetically engineered?
A genetically modified organism (GMO) or genetically engineered organism (GEO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. These techniques, generally known as recombinant DNA technology, use DNA molecules from different sources, which are combined into one molecule to create a new set of genes. This DNA is then transferred into an organism, giving it modified or novel genes. Transgenic organisms, a subset of GMOs, are organisms that have inserted DNA from a different species. GMOs are the constituents of genetically modified foods.
Selective breeding or pollination will not produce these transgenetic organisms. One of the strategies of the big seed corporations is to introduce compounds into the seed which are the same or very similar as insecticides which are sprayed onto crops. There may be good reasons for the research, the proposition does not limit research. I just dont want to be a participant of that research.