Who is the world’s leader of GM (genetically modified) foods?
The correct answer and explanation is :
The United States is a global leader in the development and commercialization of genetically modified (GM) foods. Since the approval of the Flavr Savr tomato in 1994, the U.S. has been at the forefront of GM crop adoption. By 2015, approximately 92% of corn, 94% of soybeans, and 94% of cotton produced in the U.S. were genetically modified varieties.
The U.S. government’s regulatory framework, primarily through agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Department of Agriculture (USDA), has facilitated the approval and oversight of GM crops. This supportive environment has encouraged extensive research and investment by biotechnology companies, leading to the widespread adoption of GM crops in American agriculture.
In contrast, while other countries, such as China, India, and Brazil, have adopted GM crops, their adoption rates are generally lower compared to the U.S. For instance, China was the first country to commercialize a transgenic crop in 1993 with the introduction of virus-resistant tobacco. However, the U.S. remains the largest producer of GM crops globally.
This leadership in GM food production has positioned the U.S. as a key player in global discussions on biotechnology, food security, and agricultural policy. The country’s experience with GM crops provides valuable insights into the benefits and challenges associated with agricultural biotechnology.
