Biotechnology

• What is Golden Rice used for?

  To provide vitamin A to prevent blindness
• Why is vitamin A important for humans?

  It is needed for effective vision
• What is the consequence of vitamin A deficiency?

  Half a million people go blind annually
• Why does natural rice not help in vitamin A production?

  It lacks molecules needed for vitamin A
• What is mycoprotein produced from?

  The fungus Fusarium
• How is Fusarium grown to produce mycoprotein?

  On glucose syrup in fermenter conditions
• What are the advantages of mycoprotein?

  Suitable for vegetarians and space-efficient
• What is a key benefit of growing mycoprotein?

  It can be produced in small spaces
• What are the roles of biotechnology and genetic modification in food production?

  • Increase food production
  • Improve nutritional value
  • Prevent deficiencies (e.g., vitamin A)
  • Efficient protein sources (e.g., mycoprotein)
• How does Golden Rice help combat vitamin A deficiency?

  • Genetically modified to contain vitamin A precursors
  • Provides essential nutrients to prevent blindness
• What is the process of producing mycoprotein from Fusarium?

  1. Fusarium grown on glucose syrup
  2. Fermentation in controlled conditions
  3. Harvesting and purifying biomass
  4. Used in food products