Biotechnology is not just used in laboratories to modify genes. We all use biotechnology in our everyday lives – from lipstick to laundry to
Biotechnology is used in our homes everyday and our lives would be quite different without it.
Some people think that biotechnology is about genetic modification or cloning and are surprised to learn of the full scope of this field and
Biotechnology is at work when we marinate meats to soften them, make bread, process milk into cheese or yoghurt or make fermented drinks like beer and wine. Fermentation is one of the earliest examples of biotechnology – sourdough is a slow-fermented bread and is one of the oldest types of bread.
Doing The Laundry
Even such everyday tasks as doing your laundry use biotechnology.
Most washing powders are made of a combination of inorganic and biological materials.
The biological material contains an active molecule called an enzyme, which can breakdown stains.
This means that stains like blood, egg and gravy can be washed out of the clothes.
Without enzymes, .
Looking Good
Would you rub fish juice on your face to ward off wrinkles or keep your skin clear of zits.
The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric research (NIWA) have some news you might be interested in – they are developing uses for fish wastes as cosmetics.
Find out more with the students from Cobden Primary School in this video conference: Fish into .
