GM crops

Question 1

How are crops genetically modified?

Answer 1

Using enzymes, scientists cut into pieces of DNA from one organism and cut out a gene with a particular quality. This gene is transferred into another organism, cut with enzymes. The new organism is given the characteristic of that gene

Question 2

What are three examples of GM crops?

Answer 2

Golden Rice, Banana Vaccines, Frost Resistant Tomatoes

Question 3

What is golden rice?

Answer 3

o Rice is implanted with genes from carrots, e.g carotene
o Then contains more vitamins
o Large proportion of world’s population live off rice, make a healthier diet

Question 4

Advantages of GM crops?

Answer 4

o Crops have more potential to feed more people
o Could be an inbuilt resistance to pesticide, benefits farmers as pesticide does not need to be used - higher profit
o More nutritious foods
o Pesticides may not be used, reduces environmental impact

Question 5

Disadvantages of GM crops?

Answer 5

o GM crops may not be safe
o Could be unforeseen side effects
o Organic farmers are concerned pollen released from GM crops could cross-contaminate their produce and impact their livelihood