The future holds much promise and opportunity that goes beyond what our farmers already do and do better than any in the world - feed the world. Already, biotechnology is a part of everyday life in the United States. Since 1996, growers have increasingly selected genetically enhanced varieties. According to USDA Secretary Glickman, approximately 44 percent of soybeans and 36 percent of all corn in the United States in the last year was grown from these varieties. In selecting these varieties farmers have helped to provide the foundation for foods that are better tasting, fresher, and more disease and insect resistant.
Biotechnology can improve the quality, taste and nutritional benefits of food.
It can do so in a responsible and environmentally friendly way. By protecting our environment, genetically enhanced crops have been developed that are herbicide tolerant, or are more resistant to insect or virus damage. In so doing, they require fewer chemical applications. Biotechnology crops also require less land and other natural resources, and can be grown in less than ideal climate conditions. American farmers have recognized the benefits of these new seed products.