Plant-Incorporated Protectants

Plant-Incorporated Protectants (PIPs) are a type of genetically modified crop that produce their own pest defenses. They contain specific genes from naturally pest-resistant organisms, like bacteria, that enable the plant to produce substances harmful to insects or weeds. This built-in protection reduces the need for chemical pesticides, making farming more sustainable and efficient. PIPs are regulated by government agencies to ensure they are safe for the environment and human health before they are widely used. Essentially, they give plants a natural defense system through DNA modification, helping farmers protect their crops more effectively.