Classification of plants (Linnaeus) is a necessary precursor to effective cross breeding. Breeding by phenotype and adoption of hybridisation techniques were early stage advances. The Green Revolution led to enhanced yields of major crops. The Malthusian theory of population growth suggests it will outstrip increased food production unless the paradigm can be altered. The development of marker assisted selection of useful traits and homologous gene expression can be used to improve crops using existing genetic material. The development of heterologous gene expression in suitable hosts—for example the production of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in oilseed crops—offers a way of conserving resources. Gene editing and CRISPR technology will become increasingly impactful. The parable of the Ship of Theseus and replacement of functional parts of the genome is an important thought experiment. The production of natural and unnatural products. The regulatory landscape and the Precautionary Principle (Europe) compared to the GRAS system (US) will influence the pace of technological change. The potential for the enhanced production of bioactive secondary natural products to improve heath and wellness is comparatively little studied compared to methods to induce phenotypic changes.