FDA Consumer magazine
November-December 2003 Issue

Traditional Plant Breeding:

A chromosome contains thousands of genes. Traditional plant breeding combines many genes at once.

Using traditional genetic modification methods, such as cross-fertilization, scientists can produce a desired trait, such as a hardier plant. But in doing so, they mix thousands of genes, requiring many attempts over many years to remove the unwanted traits that occur.

Newer methods of genetic modification, in the form of genetic engineering, are more precise and predictable--and faster. By controlling the insertion of one or two genes into a plant, scientists can give it a specific new characteristic without transferring undesirable traits.

Modern Plant Breeding:

Using plant biotechnology, a single gene may be added.

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