Biotechnology Information

Biotechnology is defined as the use of living organisms and other biological systems to manufacture drugs and other products for the purposes of environmental management and/or for the betterment of individual and societal health and well-being.

The practice of biotechnology has been around for centuries, gradually helping our society to evolve into what we have today. From the first moment man realized that he could grow his own crops to sustain the life of his family and community, biotechnology began. When it was discovered that cream could be churned into butter, or that grapes could be fermented into wine, biotechnology was in full practice.

Biotechnology is often broken down into several distinguishing categories, including red biotechnology, which is applied to medical processes, white biotechnology, also known as grey biotechnology which deals with industrial processes, green biotechnology which applies to agricultural processes, and blue biotechnology, which deals with the marine and aquatic applications of biotechnology.

Biotechnology is now one of the fastest growing industries in the world. From controversial stem cell research and revolutionary medical vaccines that save hundreds of lives everyday, to innovative new methods of recycling and harvesting energy to help in the ongoing effort of preserving our environment, the production of synthetic hormones from genetically engineered bacteria and chemical-free organic foods that are helping people to lead healthier lives, biotechnology is forever changing the way we all live our lives.

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