Alternative Names bioengineered foods, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), biotechnology
Definition Genetically engineered foods refer to foods in which the genetic code is scientifically altered. This produces foods with a desired trait. This process is also known as bioengineering foods. Foods are bioengineered to meet many needs. Some of these include:
developing crops that can grow in varied climates. This makes certain food crops available throughout the year and across geographical regions.
creating crops that are more resistant to adverse conditions. Foods can be made to withstand attacks by bugs or moulds or severe weather conditions such as drought.
developing foods that have more consumer appeal such as improved nutrition, longer shelf-life and better taste.
How does the nutrient affect the body?
Information Biotechnology is a broad term. It basically means, using living organisms, such as plants, animals and bacteria, to develop new products. It covers both traditional and modern techniques used to control organisms to get a desired effect. Food biotechnology began more than 6,000 years ago when yeast was added to flour to make the first loaf of bread. Other examples include adding bacteria to milk to make yoghurt, and breeding livestock or food crops to produce desired traits.
In the early 1970s, scientists found a way to cut a piece of genetic material (DNA) out of one organism and insert it into another's. This was the beginning of genetic engineering. Currently, several genetically engineered foods are available on the market. One example is tomatoes. They are bioengineered to ripen more slowly and not to spoil as quickly. This produces a more flavourable tomato because they are able to ripen on the vine and then be shipped. Commercial tomatoes are picked when still green and shipped to prevent bruising and spoilage. Then they are ripened artificially. Many more types of foods are being developed.
Research so far indicates that these foods are safe to consume. Food allergies have been the major focus of concern. For example, if a person who is allergic to fish or peanuts eats a food into which a fish or peanut gene was inserted, will it cause a reaction? The answer appears to be no. More research is being done.
Food biotechnology is a field that is growing rapidly. People will gradually start to see these types of foods in the grocery stores. Some that might show up include, low-caffeine coffee beans; rice, corn, soybeans and other vegetables that contain a higher-quality protein and fruits and vegetables with higher levels of antioxidants like vitamin C, E and beta carotene.
Author: Clare Armstrong, MS, RD Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
