Some people believe that the key to averting a potential food crisis may lie in recent advances in science and biotechnology. By manipulating the genetic composition of basic crops, such as rice, it is possible to boost a plant's rate of photosynthesis and to produce bigger crop yields. This process is known as a genetic modification; plants that are produced in such a way are called genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Genetic modification can be carried out for a variety of purposesnot only to enhance the crop yield. Scientists have produced GMOs with higher than normal vitamin content, for example; other genetically modified crops are resistant to commonly used agricultural herbicides that used to kill the weeds around them, as well as insects and fungal and viral pests. Food products that are made from, or contain traces of genetically modified organisms are known as GM foods.

    Scientists claimed that a GM strain of 'super-rice' could boost rice yields by as much as 35 percent. Another strain called golden rice -which contains added amounts of vitamin A- could reduce vitamin A deficiency in more than 120 children worldwide. Some might think that such advances in biotechnology would be welcomed enthusiastically by people around the world. But, in fact, the issue of genetic modification has become one of the most controversial issues of our age. For many people, it highlights the fine line that exists between the benefits of technology and scientific innovation, on the one hand, and the risks of environmental destruction, on the other.

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