# PTE Reading MCS #18: Agricultural Crop...

Reading: Multiple Choice, Single Answer #18 - Level 3 - Feeds Reading

> Read the text and answer the question by choosing one option. Only one answer is correct.

Mutation breeding is a method of crop development that requires breeders to first find plants that randomly display the traits researchers are looking for, and then breed those plants with other plants displaying similar traits. In order to bring about the required mutations, researchers bombard plants with thermal neutrons, x-rays, and known carcinogenic chemicals in order to damage the plant's DNA. Today, almost all varieties of wheat grown commercially are products of mutation breeding. Ironically, when scientists discovered how to splice desirable genes directly into the plants, thus avoiding the use of harmful chemicals and radiation, critics derided the new process as potentially dangerous despite the lack of any supporting evidence, resulting in boycotts and bans on genetically modified foods.

Which of the following most accurately summarizes the opinion of the author in the text?

- Genetically modified food may have been unfairly stigmatized by its critics.
- Mutation breeding produces safer food than does genetic modification.
- Foods produced by genetic modification are healthier than foods produced by mutation breeding.
- Researchers should stop using mutation breeding in order to modify foods.

## Answer

Genetically modified food may have been unfairly stigmatized by its critics.

## Explanation

The passage highlights the irony that modern genetic modification faced significant public backlash despite a lack of evidence, suggesting that the negative perception may be disproportionate or unfounded compared to older, more invasive methods.

## Hints

- Focus on the author's use of the word 'Ironically' in the final sentence.
- Compare the author's description of mutation breeding's methods with the public's reaction to genetic splicing.

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