A GMO (genetically modified organism)  is an organism whose genetic material has been changed using genetic engineering techniques. Organisms that have been genetically modified include micro-organisms such as bacteria and yeast, insects, plants, fish, and mammals. GMOs are the source of genetically modified foods, and are also used in scientific research to produce goods other than food.

For example, the Enviropig was a Yorkshire pig, genetically modified so that they have the ability to digest plant phosphorus faster and much easier than your average pig. This results in reduced feeding costs for the farmers, and reduced phosphorus pollution. The Enviropig was produced in the University of Guelph from the introduction of the Murine Parotid Secretory Protein gene (DNA from a mouse) and the E. Coli Phytase gene.

In 2010 the Enviropig was still being questioned on if it can be eaten. Before commercializing the Enviropig for human consumption, regulatory approval will be required by the given countries. The Enviropig is now in the 10^th stage of research, or generation and is not yet approved for human consumption. Canada is limiting the production of the Enviropig and will be further tested if the meat will be safe to eat. Although the Enviropig is claimed to reduce phosphorus content by 20% to 60% however, it still needs to be examined to ensure researchers of this.

The Enviropig helps the society and economy because the farmers spend less money on feeding the GMO pigs. Normal pigs produce excessive amounts of phosphorus in their manure which can contaminate water, this causes farmers to buy supplements to add to their diets to prevent the large amounts of phosphorus. The phytase that runs through the digestive tract of the modified pigs is absorbed better in the animal and gets the needed nutrients much more efficient. This also results in a better economy from the decreased phosphorus in the manure. The Enviropig's manure makes an excellent fertilizer and decreases pollution as phosphorus when it gets into water creates algae which can take a lot of the oxygen from the water, killing wildlife and plants.