Question

Golden rice is a transgenic crop of the future, with which of the following improved trait?

• A. High lysine (essential amino acid) content
• B. Insect resistance
• C. High protein content
• D. High vitamin A content

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

High vitamin A content

Genetic modification can be used to produce plants that improve food production. For example, a plant may be produced with improved resistance to pests.

Scientists have added a gene to wild rice that makes it produce $\beta$-carotene. This changes the colour of the wild rice to a golden colour. $\beta$-carotene is needed by humans in order to make vitamin A, which is essential for good vision.

The advantage of golden rice is that it can be used in areas where vitamin A deficiency is common, so it can help prevent blindness.

Thus, the correct answer is option D.