AP Environmental Science

Answer: D - Agro industry firms have worked to develop genetically engineered foods in recent decades in order to increase the productivity and pest-resistance of agricultural crops.

Key Takeaway: Genetically modified (also known as just GM) foods are foods that are derived from genetically-modified organisms that have had specific changes introduced into their DNA. Many advocates of genetically-engineered crops claim that they actually lower pesticide usage and have brought higher yields and profitability to many farmers, including those in developing nations. This is exceptionally important in areas with large quantities of people to feed. But many people also believe that genetically-modified organisms are potentially dangerous to introduce into the food supply and should not be consumed by the public.