Genetic engineering can also be used to turn genes on or off. The Flavr-Savr tomato, one of the first genetically engineered foods to hit the market, is a good example. The enzyme naturally produced by the tomato that generates an off flavor and mushy texture was turned off. The result is a vine-ripened tomato that can be shipped with minimal bruising and spoilage. For example, genetically engineered tobacco plants may be used to produce large quantities of lysozyme, an enzyme used in many detergents.
Tobacco already has a small amount of naturally occurring lysozymes.
The genetic control region that regulates production of lysozyme can be turned up, much like we turn up the thermostat at home when we want more heat. Genetically engineered tobacco can be harvested and the lysozyme mined from the leaves. Similar techniques are being used to mine pharmaceutical chemicals. Biotechnology and Animals Animals raised for food can be genetically engineered in ways similar to plants. This gives consumers more abundant, healthier food at a lower price.