Genetic engineering

• In genetic engineering, selected genes from one organism are transferred to another organism which may, or may not, belong to the same species. This process for genetic modification uses enzymes and vectors (such as bacterial plasmids or viruses) to transfer genes. It is much faster than selective breeding.
• Genes can be transferred to the cells of animals, plants or microorganisms at an early stage in their development so that they develop with the desired characteristics.
• Crops that have had their genes modified in this way are called genetically modified crops (GM crops). Crops can be genetically modified to give increased yields or to increase the amount of a vitamin in the food from the crop
• Genetically modified crops also include ones that are resistant to insect attack or to herbicides. This means that farmers can cut down on the use of pesticides. They can also spray to kill weeds while leaving the crop plant unaffected.
• Concerns about GM crops include the effect on populations of wild flowers and insects as a result of cross-pollination. Insects may evolve to become resistant so that the GM crops are no longer protected.