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A genetically modified organism (GMO) or genetically engineered organism (GEO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. These techniques are generally known as recombinant DNA technology. With recombinant DNA technology, DNA molecules from different sources are combined in vitro into one molecule to create a new gene. This DNA is then transferred into an organism and causes the expression of modified or novel traits.

Genetically modified (GM) foods are foods produced from GMO that have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering. GM foods were first put on the market in the early 1990s. The most common modified foods are derived from plants: soybean, corn, canola cotton seed oil and wheat.


2009-06-20

The Survival Seed Bank - Storing Non-Hybrid Seeds For Disaster  

One of the latest trends in survival gear and disaster preparedness is maintaining a survival seed bank. While this term is somewhat unheard of, it is sure to gain popularity over the coming months.

Already, there are many manufacturers who advertise these seed banks as a way to supplement your home emergency and disaster survival items in the event of a catastrophic emergency.

Emergency seed banks contain thousands of non-hybrid seeds in many varieties and species. These seeds are usually packaged in high quality metallic bags and in a long lasting desiccant. The entire packaging is housed in a vault that is made to withstand water and damage.

Non-hybrid seeds are selected for their high nutritional value and hardiness. In addition to their sturdy heirloom quality, the seeds are open pollinated, allowing for harvesting of more seeds for the next years crop. Genetically modified seeds usually cannot be harvested for a second or third crop.

While the notion of storing a survival seed bank may seem a bit paranoid, scientist have been doing the very same thing for about a decade with the Millennium Seed Bank Project. Maintaining seeds in the event of a disaster is not only reason for storing heirloom varieties.

In 2002 the soy plant industry was in danger of a catastrophic disaster because of the destructive Cyst Nematode. A Russian seed bank in St. Petersburg was able to provide soy bean seeds resistant to the Nematode and thereby saving the soy industry.

As of 2009, there are dozens of countries that maintain seed banks containing extinct and non-extinct heirloom variety seeds to preserve the food supply.



Autor: Joseph W

Having the ability to plant a full acre crisis garden in the event of an emergency could be the difference between your family eating or going hungry in a disaster. Storing a survival seed bank and planning a crisis garden should be a part of every persons disaster readiness plan. Much like storing food, water, batteries, and other survival gear, a seed bank should also be included with your home emergency items.


Added: June 20, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

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