Genetic engineering is a branch of biotechnology that involves manipulating the genetic material of an organism to produce desired traits or characteristics. This can involve adding, removing, or altering specific genes in an organism's DNA, often using techniques such as gene splicing or CRISPR technology. Genetic engineering has a wide range of applications, including the development of genetically modified crops, the production of pharmaceuticals and vaccines, and the treatment of genetic diseases. Critics of genetic engineering raise concerns about potential ethical, environmental, and health risks associated with the technology.