Fresh Del Monte Produce's Genetically Modified Pink Pineapple OK for Sale
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided this week that a genetically modified pink pineapple--developed by food giant Fresh Del Monte Produce--is now safe to sell in the U.S.
Genetic engineering produces lower levels of enzymes that transform into lycopene--the same enzyme that produces rich color in watermelons and tomatoes--into yellow beta carotene--the same enzyme that produces rich color in carrots. In pineapples, this method ultimately creates an inner flesh that is sweeter and pinker than that of a conventionally grown yellow pineapple.