What are genetically modified (GM) foods?

Although "biotechnology" and "genetic modification" are often used interchangeably, GM is a special set of technologies that alter the genetic composition of the body such as animals, plants or bacteria. Biotechnology, in general, relates to the use organisms or their components such as enzymes, to make products that contain wine, cheese, beer and yogurt.


Combining genes from different organisms is known as recombinant DNA technology, and the resulting organism is said that "genetically modified", "genetically engineered" or "transgenic." GM products (current or those in development) include medicines and vaccines, foods and food ingredients, food and fiber.

Finding genes for important traits, such as those providing resistance to insects or desired nutrients is one of the limiting steps in this process. However, genome sequencing and programs, the discovery of hundreds of organisms generate detailed maps along with data analysis technology to understand and to use them.