Caption

Genetically modified soya bean crop being sprayed with herbicide. Genetically modified (GM) 'Roundup Ready' soya (Glycine max) has had a gene introduced by genetic engineering, which makes it resistant to Roundup herbicide. A crop of 'Roundup Ready' soya can therefore be sprayed with the herbicide to kill weeds, but without damaging the soya bean plants. Reducing the amount of weeds theoretically increases soya bean yields. However, there is concern over the safety of GM foods. Soya beans are a good source of dietary protein, vitamins and minerals. Photographed in Arkansas, USA, where GM soya beans were introduced in 1996.