GMOs or genetically modified organisms are plants, animals, or other living things that contain genetic information altered through bioengineering. Genetic bioengineering is when scientists change and alter the DNA of organisms to achieve specific outcomes or traits they want to see. GMOs are used to modify traits in crops in order to increase yields and produce more food. They are also used to increase pest resistance and keep away weeds and other organisms that may prevent the crops from growing. Only a few crops have been commercially modified. These include corn, soybeans, cotton, and canola. GMOs are the center of many debates over labeling, sustainability, health, and more. The main drawback of GMOs is the lack of biodiversity. Since a lot of these modified crops share genes, they can be vulnerable to certain pests, increasing the use of pesticides. These pests and weeds can become resistant to these pesticides and herbicides, leading to more of them being used.
