Why are soybeans genetically modified?

Genetically modified (GM) soy was first introduced in 1996, principally to make soy crops resistant to herbicides. Although resisted in some regions, notably Europe, GM soy is now grown in many parts of the world. read more

Soybeans, along with corn, canola, cotton, and sugar beets (which together comprise the most popular genetically modified crop plants), have been modified either to withstand being doused with certain chemical herbicides (see "Glyphosate resistance") or to create their own pesticides in the cells of the plants (see "Bt Soy," "Bt Corn," etc.). read more

A genetically modified soybean is a soybean (Glycine max) that has had DNA introduced into it using genetic engineering techniques. : 5 In 1998 the first genetically modified soybean was introduced to the U.S. market, by Monsanto. read more

Soybeans are also used to produce many additives used is various food products. An example is lecithin which is used as an emulsifier in chocolate, ice cream and baked goods. In 2007, over half the world’s soybean crop was genetically modified; a higher percentage than any other crop. read more