Genetic Modification Of Pineapples
By Jacklyn Hockey
Ananas Comosus
History:
In July 2012, Fresh Del Monte Produce Co. began genetically modifying pineapples (Ananas Comosus) by overexpressing a gene found in pineapples, also found in tangerines, and surpressed other genes to give it a pink hue, and called it 'Rosé'. It was then modified to contain lycopene, an antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color, and something that may play a role in preventing cancer.
Production:
Costa Rica currently leads in world production of pineapples, producing 2,685 metric tonnes per year since 2013. The U.S. has only produced 170 tonnes per year since 2013.
Risks And Benefits:
The Rosé pineapple was mainly engineered to help in the battle against cancer, as it was modified to contain lycopene. Lycopene is also often used to prevent prostate, breast, lung, bladder, ovarian, colon, and pancreas cancer. It can also be used for heart disease and hardening of the arteries. Consuming the Rosé may aid in prevention of these diseases.
However, GMOs as a whole have been noted for their health risks regarding infertility, immune problems, accelerated aging, insulin regulation, and changes in organs and the gastrointestinal system, as stated by the AAEM.
Sources:
- http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/eats/next-generation-gmos-purple-tomatoes-pink-pineapples-article-1.2169307
- http://www.organicauthority.com/blog/organic/thats-not-blood-meet-rose-del-montes-new-red-fleshed-gmo-pineapple/
- http://www.fooddemocracynow.org/blog/2013/apr/16/del_monte_gets_approval_to_import_gmo_pinneapple/
- http://www.asbestos.com/blog/2015/05/06/cancer-fighting-pink-pineapples-purple-tomatoes/
- http://www.statista.com/statistics/298517/global-pineapple-production-by-leading-countries/
- http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-554-lycopene.aspx?activeingredientid=554&activeingredientname=lycopene