Ag in a Minute

Allison and Lucas, Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors, break down the basics of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture. Learn how GMOs help crops resist disease and insects, improve yields, and support nutrition while using less land. They also share a brief history—from the first GMO tomato in 1994 to the 13 types available worldwide today—and explain the rigorous testing that ensures GMO crops match their organic counterparts. A quick, informative look at how science helps feed a growing population! 

What is Ag in a Minute?

Minnesota agriculture is diverse and ever-changing! Join the Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors as they explore the many different aspects of agriculture and how it operates in your daily life. In just a minute, grow your agricultural knowledge in an engaging way.

Speaker 1:

Hey guys, this is Allison.

Speaker 2:

And Lucas.

Speaker 1:

One of the sibling pairs in the Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors, and this is Agriculture in a Minute.

Speaker 2:

GMO stands for genetically modified organisms. In agriculture, we genetically modify crops for various reasons, including disease resistance, insect resistance, higher yields, and limited nutrition intake. These advantages allow us to grow more food from the same amount of land, which is becoming more and more vital as our population continues to grow.

Speaker 1:

The first modified crop was a flavor saver tomato released in 1994. Now there are 13 kinds of GMOs available worldwide. Examples include corn, apples, cotton, potatoes, and soybeans, just to name a few. Before a GMO is released for use in production, the strands undergo thorough testing to ensure that the contents match their organic counterparts.

Speaker 2:

That is a brief snapshot of what GMOs are. Thank you all for listening to Agriculture in a Minute. Stay tuned for more coming soon. This is Allison and Lucas

Speaker 1:

with the Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors.

Speaker 2:

See you

Speaker 1:

next time.