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In anticipation of food shortages and global food price inflation the biotech industry is being looked to as one of the next industrial and scientific powerhouses that will give the world the environmental and economic answers it needs. For example, so-called "Golden Rice" is one of 84 genetically modified farm products that are being developed in Korea.
Genetic engineering of Korean chili peppers allowed researchers to get more beta-carotene into the grain, making it rich in vitamin A. Dr. Ha Sun-hwa of the National Academy of Agricultural Science led the team that developed the grain.
¡°So far, genetically modified organisms that are easier to grow, resistant to diseases and adaptive to harsh climates have been the main concerns in the field, but we are now expanding the biotechnology by adding extra nutrients, producing edible vaccines and producing vegetable proteins that have a curative effect."
Also in development in Korea are anti-drought potatoes, vitamin-E-enhanced lettuce and virus-resistant cacti. Researchers also hope to make products that are tolerant to pests, salty soil, hot or dry climates and have higher yields without using much insecticide.
However, at present, there are no farms in Korea that grow genetically modified crops for commercial purposes, and resistance by environmental and consumer groups that question the safety of biotech crops has hindered progress.
Scientists say these technologies are expanding from agriculture to cosmetics and even alternative energy research. But for genetically modified technology to become a true economic engine, scientists must continue working to demonstrate its safety.
Arirang News
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