Luther Burbank and Genetic Modification

Luther Burbank:
- A renowned agricultural researcher.
- Developed thousands of new crops using selective breeding.
- Improved numerous fruit varieties (plums, peaches, nectarines).
- Developed the Burbank russet potato, globally popular due to its "fry-ability."
Burbank Russet Potato:
- Favored by fast-food industries for withstanding high deep-frying temperatures.
- Maintains flavor and structure in high oil temperatures.
- Most commonly used potato in fast-food chains and restaurants.

Selective Breeding:
- Modifies genetic makeup without crossing natural barriers.
- Example: Developing dog breeds like Pomeranians and Dalmatians.
- Involves mating within the same species, selecting offspring with desired traits for further breeding.
Genetic Engineering:
- Bypasses natural barriers, allowing mixing of species or life forms at the DNA level.
- Involves manipulating the DNA material of an organism, not the organism itself.
- The term Genetically Engineered Organism (GEO) is considered more accurate than Genetically Modified Organism (GMO).
- Examples of impossibilities in nature but possibilities in genetic engineering:
  - Dog breeding with an elephant.
  - Fish pollinating an apple tree.