Biotechnology offers biotechnical and agricultural solutions to the demands of the growing human population. Modern techniques enable large quantities of microorganisms to be cultured for food.
The fungus Fusarium is used to produce mycoprotein, a protein-rich food suitable for vegetarians. The fungus is grown on glucose syrup in aerobic conditions, which means oxygen is supplied. The biomass is then harvested and purified.
Genetic modification is another solution. A genetically modified bacterium produces human insulin. When it is harvested and purified, the insulin is used to treat people with diabetes.
GM crops could provide more food, or food with improved nutritional value. An example is golden rice, which has been modified to make beta-carotene that the body can use to make vitamin A.
