The AP reports, last week the EPA and the FDA gave approval to Idaho-based J.R. Simplot Company to plant and sell three varieties of genetically engineered potatoes. These potatoes had been previously approved by the USDA.
The three varieties are the Russet Burbank, Ranger Russet and Atlantic. They have been genetically engineered to resist the blight, the disease that caused the Irish potato famine. Late blight continues to be a major problem for potato growers, especially in wetter regions. Fungicides have been used for decades to prevent the blight. Simplot says the genetically engineered potatoes reduce the use of fungicide by half.
The company also said the potatoes will have reduced bruising and black spots, enhanced storage capacity and a reduced amount of a chemical created when potatoes are cooked at high temperatures that’s a potential carcinogen.
For some reason the AP took it upon itself to ask the Non-GMO Project their opinion on the Simplot potatoes. Here’s their statement:
“There is a growing attempt on the part of biotechnology companies to distance themselves from the consumer rejection of GMOs by claiming that new types of genetic engineering ... are not actually genetic engineering.”
To my knowledge Simplot did not do this. They only mention the fact that their potatoes are not transgenics which they aren’t. Though I have yet to find a reason why transgenics should be feared more than other organisms with artificially made novel traits. Hopefully GMOs like Simplot’s potatoes can help change public perception on genetic engineering.