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In reply to the discussion: The USDA's new labeling for genetically modified foods goes into effect Jan. 1. [View all]Tumbulu
(6,300 posts)obvious misunderstandings about this topic.
If you have information to share, please do so.
I realize that many people really may not know very much about plant breeding. Or the distinctions between breeding and engineering.
Simply put engineering costs a heck of a lot more to do, which to date has limited the use of the technology to crops from which the enormous investment in resources can be recovered in sales of seeds. So, commodity crops for whom one or a few genes inserted allow for a marketable product. Round up resistant soybeans, corn that is herbicide resistant and produces a bio toxin active against its primary insect pest, that sort of thing.
Plant breeding remains the norm in ag seed development and as greater insight into how genes work together in concert is gained, the complex qualities such as yield and drought tolerance, etc. informs breeders in ways that save time allowing for the development of new varieties more rapidly.
Using the knowledge of genetics is not the same process as genetic engineering. They are separate sciences. Although every crop plant which is has genes inserted (engineered) must then go to the plant breeders to develop decent varieties acceptable to the producers and those utilizing the products of the crops.
I am not alone in these threads in responding to your questions in good faith.