In our daily lives, whether it's the food on our plates or the plants we consume, a significant portion is often genetically modified.
Genetically modified food involves the application of modern biotechnology to transfer specific genes, either singularly or in groups, from one organism to another, creating desired varieties.
For example, many soybeans and the oil derived from them are products of genetic modification.
Genetically modified (GM) soybeans undergo genetic engineering, incorporating genes from different species into the soybean genome to enhance specific traits like resistance to pests and diseases.
On the flip side, non-GM soybeans are modified to be naturally resistant to pests and diseases without the addition of external genes. These non-GM soybeans are considered natural, untouched by genetic engineering.
The advantages of GM soybeans are apparent—they can boost yields, diminish the need for pesticides, and reduce production costs, meeting the increasing demand for food.
On the other hand, non-GMO soybeans, being untouched by genetic engineering, are often viewed as safer and healthier. However, their drawback lies in lower yields, higher production costs, and, subsequently, higher prices.
How can one differentiate between GM soybeans and non-GM soybeans?
1. Size and Appearance:
Non-GM soybeans exhibit size variations, with differences in particle size, thickness, and shape. In contrast, GM soybeans, due to their high yield, tend to have a more uniform size.
2. Color:
Natural variations in growth result in color differences among non-GM soybeans. Some may be mature, while others are not, leading to variations in color. GM soybeans, maturing faster, typically display a consistent yellow color.
3. Soy Hilum:
The size of the natural hilum on soybeans varies, displaying a range of sizes, and it is characterized by a series of white ridges, which serve as indicators of the germination site in the seed.
In non-GM soybeans, the hilum color is diverse, ranging from coffee-colored to different shades. Conversely, GM soybeans usually have a uniform hilum color matching the soybean without abnormal hues.
4. Shape:
GM soybeans, created through biotechnology, tend to have minimal size and shape variations. They are generally round. In contrast, non-GM soybeans can be either round or oval, displaying more size diversity.
Identifying non-GM soybeans is feasible through visual observation. Natural soybeans exhibit variations in size, shape, maturity, and color, sometimes appearing slightly irregular.
In contrast, GM soybeans, benefiting from the transfer of advantageous genes, show minimal differences in size, shape, and color, appearing almost identical.
