Question

All crops we go have been genetically modified from their original forms. Some of it is through selective breeding, some through mutation breeding, and recently through genetic engineering. Why is there so much opposition to genetic engineering as opposed to something like mutation breeding, which has been around for decades?

Answer 1

The mutation breeding is associated with the changes in the DNA of a plant species in order to produce a better breed. These changes in DNA are introduced by selective breeding or by exposing the plant to specific conditions (chemicals or radiations) so that it induces change in response to that in its genetic material through its own mechanism. Thus, these plant species are considered safe for farming/agriculture.

In contrast to mutation breeding, in genetic engineering , a gene associated with any desirable trait is directly inserted into the genome of the plant. Such plants have not imbibed the changes in their DNA on their own as a response to any exposed condition. Several biologist assume that such plant species will reduce the biodiversity as they are not friendly to the co-existing living species be it pests or other plant species. They may also prove invasive in near future

Hence, there is much opposition to genetic engineering as opposed to something like mutation breeding.