Scientists at Texas
A&M University have
genetically modified
cotton so that it can
be used as food for
human consumption and the end
product – which tastes a little
like chickpeas – has now been
recognised as a food source by
the US regulator, the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA).
The FDA’s decision means it is
allowed as food for people and all
types of animals.
Andy Coyne, food correspondent
at GlobalData, says: “The
potential here is enormous.
“The idea that a crop that has
never been part of the human
food chain and which can be
grown widely can now be seen
as a sustainable and proteinrich
food source has incredible
implications in a world where
malnutrition is still rife.”
The research project at Texas
A&M has spanned some 25 years
but now the edible cottonseed
plant – ‘Ultra-Low Gossypol
Cottonseed’ its full name – has
been developed and the plan is
to manufacture a commercially
viable food product within five
years.
Mr Coyne adds: “There will be
those who are unhappy that once
again scientists are genetically
modifying what nature has
created.
“Surely that has to be outweighed
by the prospect of helping to
create a new protein source in a
world ravaged by food shortages.
“The researchers at Texas A&M
should be proud of what they
have achieved and the FDA
applauded for taking such a
pragmatic view of this potentially
life-saving new product.”
INNOVATION
GENETICALLY MODIFIED
COTTON THE NEXT
FOOD SOURCE?
Cotton could be an unlikely ally
in the fight against malnutrition
www.foodtechnology.co.nz 5
/www.foodtechnology.co.nz
