Biotechnology

what is biotechnology

involves the alteration and use of living organisms to produce products for human use

what is mycoprotein an example of

genetically modified crop ( GMC)

how is mycoprotein produced

The fungus Fusarium is grown on glucose syrup in aerobic conditions. The biomass is harvested and purified

why is mycoprotein useful

creates a protein rich food suitable for vegetarians

what are some ways that crops have been genetically modified

- plants such as wheat and maize have been genetically modified to contain a gene from a bacterium that produces a poison that kills insects, making them resistant to insect pests such as caterpillars. This can improve crop yields

- Some crops have been genetically modified to produce additional vitamins and improved nutritional value, eg. 'golden rice' has been genetically modified to produce a chemical that is turned into vitamin A ( can help prevent defiency diseases in less developed areas)

- Some have been genetically modified to be drought-resistant (to grow better in very dry conditions). This can also improve crop yields

- herbicide resistance so that only weeds die

- virus resistance eg. TMV resistant crops