Illinois
COMMENTARY

Understanding the benefits biotechnology

We are on the edge of a brave new frontier made possible by biotechnology in agriculture. The results will be more dramatic than improvements from decades of traditional crop and livestock breeding programs. The difference is that biotechnology will enable more rapid improvements.

What is biotechnology? It is the introduction of DNA from one species to another, from one plant to

Larry Keene

another, from one animal to another, or from a plant to an animal, or vice versa.

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are "enhanced" with the desired traits to produce:
• healthier foods,
• pharmaceuticals that fight cancer and other diseases,
•crops that are more environmentally friendly, and
• crops for industrial uses.

With biotechnology scientists are able to insert "desired traits" into existing agricultural plants and animals. One of the results is that healthier foods are being developed. "Golden rice" is an example of one of these genetically modified crops with higher levels of beta-carotene and vitamin A.

With improved taste and other traits, more soy protein is being added to American diets. As a result, American Heart Association research shows that the addition of 6.25 grams of soy protein a day reduces human cholesterol by 10 - 15 percent, and soy products reduce heart disease and prostate and breast cancers.

Antibodies from transgenic (genetically altered) corn fight against cancer. An anti-tooth decay product is being tested now from a genetically modified tobacco plant. When applied by your dentist or used in a mouthwash it will prevent or reduce tooth decay for three to five years.

An additional health benefit being developed from transgenic goats is a blood clotting-agent for use in human surgeries.

In the area of industrial uses, biotechnology is developing agricultural crops to make:
• natural colors in cotton instead of using dyes that can be an environmental hazard,
• cotton with increased strength to weave a denser cloth for natural resistance to wrinkling,
• carbohydrate-based plastics to make carpeting that is biodegradable, and
• biodegradable plastics for diapers, an improvement over today's disposable diapers that take up to 14 percent of our landfill space and could still be there a hundred years from now.

How is this new technology regulated? The United States has three highly respected federal agencies charged with regulating biotechnology and safeguarding our food supply. They are the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Together, these entities require tests and certification to ensure what is done is safe. Europe does not have these regulatory agencies.

For us, the new technology makes more rapid and dramatic improvements possible. If embraced, this science will combine nature and biotechnology to make genetically altered crops that are healthier for consumers and the environment. The answer lies in educating others as to the benefits. If biotechnology is embraced, GMOs will improve our quality of life.

For more information go to the Council for Biotechnology Information website at www.whybiotech.com, or call 800-980-8660.

Larry Keene is director, value enhanced products for GROWMARK, Inc. He is responsible for evaluating value-enhanced products for the FS System. To gain contracts for farmers he is in contact with technology buyers, major grain companies, and food processors.

The opinions and views of guest commentators are their own and may not represent those of the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives or the electric co-ops of Illinois.

4 ILLINOIS COUNTRY LIVING JANUARY 2001