In 2012, the global acreage of genetically modified crops continued to increase for the 17th consecutive year at a rate of 6% (25 million acres). The acreage of genetically modified crops, or biotech crops, has increased nearly 100-fold since commercialization in 1996, making biotech crops the most rapidly adopted crop technology in the history of modern agriculture (“ISAAA”). The biotechnology boom has changed the way producers grow their crops, for better or worse. The explosion of genetically modified crops and foods has sparked a debate about whether they are harmful to the environment and society or whether they are a beneficial new technology that can help provide food for the world's rapidly growing population. To understand the debate, it is important to understand genetically modified organisms, or GMOs for short. According to the Non-GMO Project, GMOs are plants genetically modified with DNA from bacteria, viruses, or other plants and animals. In other words, these plants “have been modified in the laboratory to improve desired characteristics such as greater herbicide resistance or improved nutritional content” (Whitman). The best-known example of this is the introduction of Bt genes into corn and other crops. “Bt, or Bacillus thuringiensis, is a naturally occurring bacterium that produces crystalline proteins that are lethal to insect larvae.” The active protein genes of Bt are transferred into corn, allowing corn to produce its own pesticides (Whitman). Thanks to advances like this, experts in the United States have hailed genetically modified foods as the “food of the future” and as a tool to substantially reduce hunger in poorer countries (Laros and Steenkamp 1). The mon... ... middle of paper ... hey, they're contingent on other states passing similar bills. Hopefully, this progress will spread across the country on a national level. With these regulations, GMOs will be able to reach their potential while protecting and informing the American population. GMOs have attracted a lot of attention recently due to growing concerns about the safety and effectiveness of genetic engineering in foods. Biotech foods have the potential to solve malnutrition and world hunger, as well as protect the environment and increase crop yields. However, many people are concerned about the long-term effects of GMOs on the environment and health. Ultimately, the potential benefits of GMOs far outweigh the costs. Proceeding with caution to avoid unintended harm to the environment and human health will allow genetically modified foods to truly become the “food of the future”..”