Feeding the World
Having food security means having a safe, plentiful food supply for all people. It is a huge goal, so animal scientists are working to improve the supply of animal products.
Having food security means having a safe, plentiful food supply for all people. It is a huge goal, so animal scientists are working to improve the supply of animal products.
One way to feed the world is to grow certain genetically modified (GM) foods. These foods are a safe, healthy way to combat hunger and keep groceries affordable.
Common GM crops are pest-resistant corn and soybeans. Crops can also be engineered to be drought-tolerant or resistant to certain viruses. These changes help plants grow more efficiency in many environments. When a crop resists pests or disease, farmers can harvest more food. With a plentiful food supply, food prices will go down.
GM technology also helps people grow more food locally. Many countries lack the infrastructure to get safe, nutritious food to the people who need it. Drought-resistant GM crops can thrive in normally hostile environments, and people can reduce food wastage by raising crops modified to resist pests.
Scientists regularly test GM foods for safety. There have been over 200 studies comparing GM food and non-GM food in at least 15 animal species. Scientists have made no significant connections between GM foods on the market and any diseases or growth disorders.
Through the Jr. Animal Scientist magazine and special online resources, kids can learn about pets, farm animals and zoo animals. Scientific information is tailored for kids ages 5 to 9 (K-3rd grades). Eye-catching photos and exciting animal activities add to the fun! Plus, all Jr. Animal Scientists get special prizes just for joining.
