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Other Reasons to Modify Crops

Overview

Recommended Year Level:  Years 9 and 10        
Required Knowledge: Little                                                                                                                               

Duration: 1 x 50 minute lesson

Soybeans are used to make soy oil, tofu, soy milk, lecithin, soy flour and soy protein. In one form or another, soy is a key ingredient in many foods. In fact, about two-thirds of all manufactured food products contain a soy-based ingredient. Different varieties of soybeans are used for different foods.

Soy is one of the six main crops used worldwide for oil production. Others oils include canola, sunflower, palm, cottonseed and peanut. Soy proteins are thought to be able to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. Soy is also used as an ingredient in animal feed.

Because of its widespread use and nutritional qualities, scientists are looking at ways to use gene technology to enhance the plants.

Read about CSIRO's legume research projects here.