The most commonly used distinction among organisms is between plants and animals. Plants get their energy directly from sun light and prepare their food through a process called photosynthesis, while animals consume the food synthesized by plants.

Recent research studies widen the potential of plant biotechnology to enhance production as well as the quality of nutrients from plants. In genetically modified plants, DNA is modified using genetic engineering techniques to introduce a new beneficial trait which does not normally occur in that plant.

Examples include resistance to certain pests, diseases or environmental conditions, or the production of a certain nutrient or pharmaceutical agents. Genetic engineering, using recombinant DNA, alters the genetic makeup of the animal for selected purposes like producing therapeutic proteins.