Genetically modified foods (GM foods) are created by altering the genetic material of organisms such as plants, animals, or microorganisms using a process known as genetic engineering. This process involves manipulating an organism's DNA to introduce new traits that do not occur naturally. These traits might include resistance to pests, tolerance to herbicides, enhanced nutritional content, or faster growth. Scientists first identify a desired trait, such as insect resistance or drought tolerance, in another organism. They isolate the gene responsible for this trait and then introduce it into the target organism. The modified organism is then allowed to grow, and if successful, the resulting GMOs can be cultivated on a large scale.

Across continents, genetically modified organisms are primarily used in agriculture to produce crops like corn, soybeans, and cotton. While many of these crops are used to feed livestock, some are also used in processed foods for human consumption. The main reasons for producing genetically modified foods are to help crops resist plant diseases and withstand herbicides, which are used to control weeds or other plants that negatively affect crop growth.

By engineering crops to have these traits, farmers can improve yield and reduce losses caused by pests or competition from weeds. Additionally, using genetically modified foods can lower food prices by increasing the amount of food harvested and improving the reliability of crop production, even during challenging or unpredictable growing seasons. This can help ensure a more stable food supply. The list of common genetically modified (GM) foods, many of which are grown widely in the U.S. and other countries: corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, alfalfa, papaya, sugar beets, potatoes, squash, and apples. There has been significant debate about whether genetically modified food products can lead to allergies, cancer, antibiotic resistance, and toxicity to human organs. However, these concerns have been dismissed by the World Health Organization (WHO), which has found that GMOs are safe to incorporate into daily life. That said, the long-term effects are still undergoing study. All GMO products are labeled accordingly for easy identification.

The pharmaceutical industry has been a significant area for the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In 1986, human growth hormone became the first protein drug produced in plants, followed by the creation of the first plant-derived antibody in 1989, both utilizing tobacco plants. These plants have since emerged as the most researched and utilized species for gene expression. By 2003, multiple plant-produced antibodies had entered clinical trials. Genetically modified animals have also played a vital role in medical research, with transgenic animals bred to carry human genes or specific mutations, enabling scientists to investigate genetic factors and disease progression. Further GMO research could greatly benefit various industries. For instance, certain microorganisms are being explored for their potential to generate clean energy and decompose waste. Additionally, genetically modified plants could be instrumental in developing recombinant vaccines, including the innovative concept of edible vaccines embedded in fruits and vegetables.

This approach could offer a cost-effective method for disease prevention in underdeveloped regions, bypassing the need for extensive immunization campaigns. Ongoing research aims to create plant-based vaccines for diseases like hepatitis B, E. coli, and Norwalk virus using crops such as potatoes and lettuce. Scientists are also investigating plants' potential to produce valuable proteins, including spider silk and biopolymers for surgical use and tissue repair. Furthermore, genetically modified animals are being explored for xenotransplantation, where they grow human tissues and organs for transplantation. With a broad spectrum of applications, GMOs promise significant societal benefits, although further research and development are necessary to fully explore and harness these advancements, ensuring their potential is maximized for future needs across multiple sectors.