Urban farming has been a hot topic lately, with innovative methods and technologies constantly emerging to revolutionize the way we grow our food. One such groundbreaking development is the creation of the Purple Tomato, a genetically modified food crop that is now being marketed directly to home gardeners in the US.
The Purple Tomato, developed by Norfolk Plant Sciences, is the result of about 20 years of research and genetic engineering. By incorporating color genes from a snapdragon flower, the creators have produced a tomato with a striking purple hue and plum-colored flesh. Beyond its unique appearance, the Purple Tomato is also packed with high levels of anthocyanin, a health-promoting compound.
While genetically modified foods have traditionally been available primarily to commercial producers, Norfolk Plant Sciences has taken a bold step by making the Purple Tomato seeds accessible to home gardeners. This move is aimed at challenging the negative perceptions surrounding GMO foods in the US. According to a 2020 Pew Research study, a majority of Americans view GMOs as less healthy than non-genetically modified foods, with only a small percentage considering them to be healthier.
Nathan Pumplin, CEO of Norfolk Healthy Produce, a subsidiary of Norfolk Plant Sciences, expressed the company’s goal to demonstrate the benefits of biotechnology to consumers. Pumplin emphasized that the Purple Tomato not only offers superior taste but also enhanced nutrition, serving as a testament to the potential advantages of biotechnological advancements in agriculture.
The driving force behind the creation of the Purple Tomato is Cathie Martin, a biochemist with a background in training at the University of Cambridge. Her pioneering work involved the incorporation of DNA from a purple snapdragon into the tomato, with the aim of boosting its anthocyanin content and disease-fighting properties.
As the Purple Tomato makes its debut in the US market, it represents a significant milestone in the realm of genetically modified foods. By directly engaging home gardeners, Norfolk Plant Sciences is seeking to reshape public perceptions and highlight the potential benefits that biotechnology can offer to consumers.
