Read the following passage: The need for crops to survive is vital. Today, a crop failure can have a widespread global effect. Lots of time and studies have gone into crop protection. Countless changes have been made to plants and animals since farming began. The science of genetically modified organisms (GMO) protects crops. Genetic modification involves making changes on a genetic level. Scientists are using the DNA of plants to change them. They create GM seeds that resist damage due to weather like frost and drought. Some GM seeds have resistance to insects, viruses, and pesticides, which results in larger and better quality crop yields. Other GM crops are designed to ripen slower. Some GM crops bruise less. Others are designed to last longer during shipping. This means that consumers enjoy fresher, quality products. GM crops can be designed to grow in dry soil conditions. They have been developed to contain more nutrients. The result of using of GM seeds is increased crop production. Genetically modified crops have proven beneficial for farmers and the environment.

Select the piece of evidence that explains why genetically modified crops were introduced.

Group of answer choices

Genetic modification involves making changes on a genetic level.

GM crops are designed to grow in dry soil conditions.

Lots of time and studies have gone into crop protection.

Today, a crop failure can have a widespread global effect.