The modern techniques for crop improvement are generally referred to as genetic modification or genetic engineering. Through this technology, a gene that codes for a specific characteristic is transferred into another organism that needs that trait. For example, an insecticidal gene from a soil microorganism can be transferred to corn plants to develop insect resistant corn. A plant gene can also be switched off or boosted to improve a specific trait without the need to insert a gene from other organisms.

As researchers continuously search for better ways to improve crops for food security, new breeding innovations have been developed. The latest technique used by crop scientists is called gene editing. It is the process of making a targeted change in the DNA of a living organism in a more precise, quick and cheaper way compared to genetic engineering.

Scientists often describe it as something like editing a word document on your computer. You can change a portion of that document by finding a certain word or phrase. You can either delete that word, replace it with a better word, or add another word to improve your document.

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