Final answer:
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms that have been genetically engineered to possess specific desired traits. This is done by adding foreign DNA into their genome, resulting in crops like 'Golden Rice' and 'Roundup Ready' soybeans. Genomics is essential for developing and understanding GMOs, which have become a significant part of our food supply.
Step-by-step explanation:
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genomes have been actively modified through genetic engineering techniques. This process often involves the addition of foreign DNA to an organism's genome to achieve certain traits, such as disease resistance or increased nutritional value. For example, some GMO crops can resist herbicides or produce insecticides, leading to higher crop yields and reduced chemical usage.
Genomics, the study of whole genomes, plays a critical role in understanding and applying these modifications. A genetically modified organism might be a plant with a specific gene modification, such as 'Golden Rice,' which is engineered to produce beta-carotene, or 'Roundup Ready' soybeans, which are modified to resist certain herbicides.
Despite the controversy surrounding their use, genetically modified foods have been part of the global food supply since the 1990s. Over time, the prevailing scientific view has been that GMO foods are as safe for consumption as their non-modified counterparts.