Transgenic Seeds, Plants, and Crops

Genetically modified (GM), or transgenic, seeds, plants, and crops have been the focus of considerable attention of the farmers, agricultural scientists, molecular biologists, the general public, and the media. Barring the one-sided view of the general public to consider GM crops as the latest incarnation of evil biotechnology, most agricultural scientists and biotechnologists are convinced that genetic engineering of plants represents a technology with enormous potential to increase food production in an environmentally benign way. The human population is growing faster than anticipated. According to the recently publised estimates, the world population has been projected to be 9.3 billion in 2050, which is 400 million more than previously estimated. It is an enormous challenge to feed all of these people and thus prevent famine, upheaval, or civil war. Also, more and better food is needed; at least for the majority of people living in the developing countries.