In 1996, the first genetically engineered crop was commercialized. The first genetically modified plant was produced a short time later, in 1983 using an antibiotic resistant tobacco plant. Then in 1990, cotton was successfully genetically modified.

This all led up to crops eaten by humans to be genetically modified. In 1994, the tomato was genetically modified for human consumption. This genetic modification allowed the tomato to delay ripening after picking.

Afterwards in 1995, a biotech company Monsanto introduced herbicide immune soybean. Also in 1995, the Bt Potato was approved safe by the Environmental Protection Agency, making it the first pesticide producing crop to be approved in the USA. In 1996, the first genetically modified Canola was available on the market. In the year 2000, scientist discovered that they were able to genetically modify foods to increase their nutrient value. In the year 2005, Alfafa began being marketed in the USA. As of 2012, there are many ongoing court cases and FDA investigation into genetically modified foods.