What is a GMO Actually?? With Katie Aikins, Director of Education AZFB

In this episode of Arizona Agriculture Connection, Nicole is joined by Katie Aikens, Director of Education at Arizona Farm Bureau, to delve into the topic of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms). They define GMOs, differentiate between traditional breeding methods and transgenic organisms, and address common consumer concerns. The episode highlights the rigorous approval process for GMOs, which includes safety testing by the FDA, USDA, and EPA over an average of 13 years and $130 million. Katie discusses various GMO crops like corn, soybeans, papaya, and innovative biotech foods like pink pineapples and purple tomatoes. The discussion also touches on GMOs' benefits to farmers, such as drought and pest resistance, and to consumers, like non-browning apples and potatoes. The episode debunks myths, explains the difference between GMOs and gene-editing technologies like CRISPR, and lists trusted resources for further information on GMOs.