The United States has approved three types of genetically modified potatoes. Also, federal officials have reported that these types of potatoes can resist the pathogen that brought about the Irish potato famine.
Although still not proven, the officials claim that these potatoes are safe for both the consumption and environment.
Idaho-based J.R Simplot Co. got permission to start planting the potatoes from the U.S. FDA and Environmental Protection Agency. Consequently, they were about to plant these potatoes in the spring and sell them in the fall.
What Do These Types of Potatoes Contain?
According to the company, the types of potatoes have only potato genes. Additionally, they are resistant to blight, the disease that brought about the potato famine in Ireland. This resistance results from an Argentine variety that has naturally developed this defense.
This process of genetic code change of food causes health and ethical issues for farmers, people, and companies.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved these three types of potatoes the Ranger Russet, Russet Burbank, and Atlantic. According to Doug Cole, the Simplot spokesman, these potatoes have the same texture, taste, and nutritional properties as conventional potatoes.
Also, the company states that these potatoes will have fewer black spots and bruising, improved storage capacity, and a lower amount of chemicals.
Above all, potatoes are the most important crops worldwide along with rice, corn, and wheat.
According to the Non-GMO Project, a non-profit organization that strongly opposes GMOs and verifies non-GMO products and food, these types of potatoes can’t be qualified as non-GMO ones.
The Washington state-based stated that biotechnology companies tend to distance themselves from the consumer’s rejection of GMO products. They also claim that these new types are actually not genetically engineered.
Source Denver Post | Denver Post
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