One of the most newsworthy applications of biotech is in the realm of genetically modified (GM) foods. These have been controversial through the years due to concerns over safety and whether the foods count as intellectual property. However, that hasn’t stopped scientists from seeing what they can come up with. Regardless of how you feel about the subject, here are some examples through the years that I’ve found interesting.Flavr Savr: The famous Flavr Savr was the first commercially-grown genetically engineered food licensed by the FDA (in 1994). The tomato had an antisense gene which prevented the fruit from softening, and no evidence of safety issues was found. However, due to the inexperience of creator Calgene, production lasted for only a few years, ending in 1997.Non-browning apple: A company in British Columbia called Okanagan Specialty Fruits has been developing this apple since 2008. Unlike most genetically modified foods, the apple was created with cisgenics (hiding an existing gene) rather than transgenics (introducing new genes). The company is approaching the USDA for approval, although the decision could take years.Soybeans: 93 of the soybeans in America have been modified to be resistant to the glyphosate and/or glufosinate herbicides. This is achieved by inserting a gene from the bacteria into the soybean.Cotton: Another highly-modified crop in America is cotton, used to make cottonseed oil. 93 of cotton grown in 2009-2010 had an added Bt crystal protein gene to make it resistant to pests.Golden rice: Golden rice has been genetically modified to contain beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in the body. Three new genes (two from daffodils and one from a bacterium) have been added. This particular food could have great benefits for citizens in underdeveloped countries.Pigs: Researchers have been more reluctant to modify animal organisms, but pigs have been attempted at various times. In 2005, researchers developed a breed of pig capable of absorbing plant phosphorus more efficiently. A year later in 2006, researchers engineered a pig to produce omega-3 fatty acids using a roundworm gene.You may be wondering how to determine if a food has been genetically modified. The Price Look-Up code is one indicatorit always starts with an 8. However, there is no mandatory labeling law, although many companies still provide one.