The British biotechnology company Tropic has created a banana variety that does not turn brown for up to 12 hours after peeling. This was reported by The Guardian.
Advantages of the new banana variety
The new variety of bananas darken 30 percent slower than other bananas within a day after peeling. Scientists achieved this result by deleting the gene responsible for the production of the polyphenol oxidase enzyme, which causes the fruit to turn brown. This technology has previously been used to modify apples, tomatoes and mushrooms.
Another important feature of the new banana variety is that it is not genetically modified (non-GMO). Scientists have achieved this development without adding foreign DNA, but only by regulating the activity of existing genes.
In which countries will the new variety be sold?
Currently, the United States, Canada, Colombia, Honduras and the Philippines have approved the sale of the new banana variety. This product is expected to enter other markets in the near future.
Impact on the banana industry and the environment
Bananas are one of the most popular fruits in the world, and due to their short shelf life, almost half of the product goes to waste. The new development will help reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions by preventing the rapid spoilage of the fruit.
The launch of the new banana variety on the market will not only offer consumers a higher-quality and longer-lasting product, but also create new opportunities for the food industry. This development may be applied to other fruits in the future.
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