What does genetically modified organism mean?

Genetically Modified Organisms

Gene splicing or hybrid species are both genetically modified. *That is true, but there are two distinct kinds of genetic modification. Hybrids are modified by crossing one variety with another within the same species. For example a Rutgers tomato is crossed with a Big Boy tomato to make a better variety of tomato. Another form of genetic modification is called bioengineering. Unlike hybrids, this type of genetic modification is done by spicing genes from one species into those of an entirely different species. This type of gene splicing has been done to certain vegetables since, I believe, the 1970s. An example is bacteria or virus genes have been spliced into corn. This type of modification has been done with tomatoes, soybeans, potatoes, and other vegetables, as well as some varieties of trees. From what I have read, the goal is not to make a better variety, but to make the variety more tolerant of chemicals or, in the case of trees, to make their structure weaker to make them more suitable for paper-making. An organic grower most often uses heirloom varieties that have not been genetically modified, either by hybridization or bioengineering. In fact, most of the organic growers I know are vehemently opposed to any kind of bioengineered organisms and have organized to oppose such practices.

First answer by Redbeard. Last edit by Deb. Contributor trust: 1130 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 73 [recommend question]