What are GMO's? by Angela

 GMOs, or genetically modified organisms, have been around for decades. It first started in 1973 when biochemists Herbert Boyer and Stanley Cohen inserted DNA from one bacteria into another, developing genetic engineering. Later, in 1982, the first consumer GMO product was developed through genetic engineering and approved by the FDA: human insulin for diabetes. 

However, GMO foods only became available to consumers in the early 1900s. Countless departments like the US Food and Drug Administration ensure These GMOs are safe for people, animals, and the environment. 

So what exactly is a GMO? A genetically modified organism is a plant, animal, or microorganism whose DNA has been altered using technology that often entails the transfer of particular DNA from one organism to another. With the aid of genetic engineering, scientists are now able to put a single advantageous gene, such as insect resistance or drought tolerance, into a plant. The justifications for genetic alteration now are still the same as they were thousands of years ago: better nutrition, longer storage life, better appearance, lower crop loss, higher crop yields, and/or some combination of these qualities. GMO foods are just as healthy and secure to consume as non-GMOs. In fact, several GMO plants have undergone modifications to increase their nutritional worth. These benefits are why GMOs are so important in Agriculture and why they help farmers worldwide produce the best products for consumers.