There are substantial challenges to contemporary agriculture, challenges that will only increase with time. There is an unending need for improved varieties. To create new varieties humans have been genetically modifying food by selective breeding for over 15000 years, mixing tens of thousands of genes at a time with no sense of changes that could be occurring. Today science has the ability to speed plant modification with the introduction of a single gene or small suite of genes. This surgical and precise approach has many advantages, including a tremendous safety record. However, many remain fearful of the technology. Dr. Kevin Folta of the University of Florida discusses the science behind the technology, its potential, its limitations and applications.

RELEVANT LINKS:
iTunes: Episode #001 – GMOs with Kevin Folta, PhD
Archived Meetup Event – Kevin Folta, PhD talks about the science of genetically-modified­ food. – Vegan Chicago
Message Board Discussion – PRE-TALK: Genetically-Modified Food Talk – Vegan Chicago
Message Board Discussion – POST-TALK: Genetically-Modified Food Talk – Vegan Chicago