Can GMO crops transfer modified genes to conventionally-bred crops?
Yes. Cross-fertilisation or gene transfer can occur between both conventional crops and GM crops. A modified gene in a GM crop could possibly spread to a related, conventional crop via pollen drift (by wind or on insects). If the GM and conventional crops flower at different times, cross-fertilisation cannot occur. But if they flower at the same time, the crops must be kept separate to avoid cross-pollination with non-GM crops. The distance of separation is the subject of considerable discussion.
