Genetically modified foods have been altered in some way, usually for the purpose of increasing yield or efficiency. This is common in agricultural crops, especially in corn, grains, and various fruits and vegetables. Common reasons for genetic modification include improving flavor, increasing resistance to insects, and increasing the per-acre yield. Though agricultural crops are the most commonly modified foods, animal products are sometimes altered as well. For example, synthetic growth hormones are used to make beef cows bigger, yielding more meat, and to increase the amount of milk that dairy cows can produce. Some of these practices are criticized by various groups as being unsafe or unnatural. Despite this, an estimated 75% of all foods purchased in America contain at least some genetically modified ingredients.
Companies involved in genetically modified foods
- DuPont (DD) and Dow Chemical Company (DOW) are large chemical companies that manufacture genetically modified seeds and other tools agricultural technologies used to increase crop yield.
- Monsanto Company (MON) and Syngenta AG (SYT) also produce specially engineered seeds to increase crop yields. In addition, Monsanto makes the only synthetic rBST (recombinant bovine somatotropin), a hormone used to increase dairy cows' production of milk.
- Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM) is a large distributor of agricultural products, including corn and grains. While the exact percentage is unknown, ADM does distribute, process, and sell some genetically modified products.
