Tag: Bt corn

The majority of corn grown in the United States today, and in many other parts of the world, is genetically modified. A prime example of this is Bt corn, a variety engineered to resist specific insect pests. This modification significantly reduces the need for chemical insecticide applications, offering a built-in defense mechanism against crop-damaging insects.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), only a small number of fresh fruits and vegetables sold in the U.S. market are a result of modern genetic engineering. This article will delve into **what vegetable is genetically made** using contemporary biotechnology, providing clarity on the specific types and their unique traits.

According to the FDA, it is very likely you are already eating products with ingredients from GMO crops, as many staples like cornstarch and soybean oil come from genetically modified plants. This article will explore specific examples of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that you likely encounter in your daily diet, helping to demystify what is an example of a GMO you eat.

Genetic engineering has been used for decades to modify the genetic makeup of certain crops for beneficial traits like pest resistance and longer shelf life. The first commercially grown genetically modified (GM) vegetable, the Flavr Savr tomato, was approved for sale in 1994, marking a significant milestone in food technology. This process has since been applied to various vegetables and crops, becoming a widespread practice in modern agriculture.

In 2020, over 90% of corn planted in the United States was genetically modified, with a significant portion ending up in the processed foods we consume. Understanding which corn is genetically modified is key for informed purchasing, as the type of corn determines its likelihood of being a genetically engineered variety.

While regulatory bodies generally consider approved GMOs safe, a 2020 Pew Research Center survey found that nearly half of respondents believed genetically modified foods are harmful. This public perception is often driven by concerns about **what is bad about genetically modified corn**, prompting closer examination of its potential risks.