Global Cultivation, Utilization, and Consumption of Transgenic Plants Globally

Abstract

The growing global demand for food, integrated with the development of genetic engineering technologies aimed at generating beneficial genetically modified (GM) crops, has enhanced the production of GM crops and raised their awareness in the food market. Many countries or regions require risk assessment protocols for GM crops before approving them for consumption as food. The cultivation of GM crops has drastically altered agricultural techniques worldwide, addressing critical issues associated with resource inefficiency, insect threat, climate change, and food insecurity. Due to the commercialization of crops such as GM maize, cotton, soybean, and canola, the production of GM crops has expanded to over 200 million hectares globally since their initial introduction in the 1990s. This chapter provides global statistics on transgenic crops, including the areas under development, cultivation, and acceptance. Trait advances, including herbicide tolerance, insect resistance, and nutritional enhancement, are given particular attention. This chapter also focuses on international trade patterns, adoption rates, and utilization patterns of GM crops in different locations, regulatory frameworks, and societal problems that impact the adoption of transgenic crops. Countries like China and the European Union (EU) are significant importers of GM soybeans and maize, particularly for animal feed and oil processing industries, which dominate global trade. The strategic importance of transgenic crops in attaining global food security and sustainable agriculture by integrating scientific, commercial and policy aspects which are also included in this chapter. Through advancements in gene editing and sustainable farming practices, the next-generation transgenic crops have the potential to address nutritional deficiencies, climate change, and food system resilience.