"The term"biotechnology" pertains to various medical, agricultural and industrial techniques that use living organisms to create new products and processes. One of these techniques is genetic engineering(GE)". This method allows short sections of DNA to be isolated from the genetic material of any one organism and to be transferred into the cells of a different organism, thus altering its original characteristics. Organisms with at least one foreign gene inserted are known as genetically modified organisms (GMO's). Genetic modifications can be preformed on any type of life form including plants, animals and microorganisms. This is possible because the genetic material DNA is common to all organisms and the information contained in the DNA coding for the protein can be translated in all organisms, since the "alphabet" and "language" of DNA are universal. In contrast to traditional breeding, genetic engineering involves taking genes from one species and inserting them into another in an attempt to transfer a desired trait or character. It is now possible for scientists to introduce genes taken from bacteria, viruses, insects, animals or even humans, into plants. " "It is well established that most natural bacteria do not cause disease. After many years of experimentation, microbiologists have demonstrated that they can engineer bacteria that are just as safe as their natural counterparts." Currently there are many crops that are being grown commercially that have already been genetically altered. These crops include soybeans, corn, potatoes, canola, cotton. Monsanto is also hoping to begin production of Genetically Engineered wheat in the near future. You may not eat soybeans or canola, however animals such as cattle, pigs and chickens do, and therefore eventually you are eating them as well. Reasons for these crops being in existence is because of the great yield benefits and the possibility of curing world hunger, and enhancing crops with beneficial vitamins.