How to Identify Genetically Modified Corn? A Full Breakdown of Practical Identification Methods

Genetically modified corn is corn produced by using modern molecular biotechnology to introduce genes from useful plants that are very distantly related in taxonomic terms into the genetic material of corn that needs improvement, and to make its offspring exhibit the stable inherited traits that people are seeking. Transgenic technology is the core technology for producing genetically modified corn; it uses DNA recombination technology to transfer exogenous genes into a recipient organism, causing targeted, stably inherited changes, that is, enabling the new recipient organism to acquire new traits. Since genetically modified corn first appeared, although some of its improved traits can meet people's requirements, its safety has remained highly controversial. Scientists and governments of various countries also hold differing attitudes toward genetically modified corn.

Methods for Identifying Genetically Modified Corn

There are some methods that can identify whether corn is genetically modified. Genetically modified corn is sweet and crisp, plump, shapely, with kernels at the tip and base being about the same. Several criteria for judging genetically modified foods:

1. Size. Traditionally, tomatoes also have a certain size. For example: small tomatoes only as big as a thumbnail are definitely genetically modified. Another example is soybeans, also called yellow beans, the kind used to make tofu and soy milk; their shape should be like an animal organ: the shape of a kidney, somewhat flat. But today's soybeans are all round, much larger, like peas, and have very high yields; they are genetically modified.

2. Color. Anything different from the traditional color is definitely genetically modified, such as colored cotton and colored peppers.

3. Yield. Genetically modified crops generally have yields considerably higher than traditional crops in their first few years.

4. Season. Apart from greenhouse vegetables, other out-of-season foods are likely to be genetically modified.

5. Pests. Any crop that pests like to visit is not genetically modified; any crop that pests fear, meaning there are no pests, or very few pests, is genetically modified.