USDA Approves First Genetically Modified Fruit

As they say, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, but come February, apples growing on trees may be an antiquated concept.

According to GrubStreet, a Canadian fruit company has created a genetically modified apple that will hit store shelves in February 1st. The company, Okanagan Speciality Fruits, is set to debut their Arctic Golden Apple as a spin on the classic Golden Delicious. The apple, created with the intention to not brown, will reportedly be available at ten locations in the midwest, though specific stores have not yet been identified. As for the specifics, the Arctic Apple has been developed with help from founder Neal Carter, who prevents browning in the produce by reducing the amount of the enzyme polyphenol oxidase.

GMO foods have garnered harsh criticism from skeptics due to the fact that many products include additives or additional chemicals. These apples, however, contain no additives. They won’t be labeled as GMO, either, which may be related to a new bill Congress is trying to pass on the labeling of food products. Despite worries on the future of food, author McKay Jenkins explains that this new product has the potential to “lift the cloud over GMOs”. 

Aside from the Golden Delicious, other varieties are also in the works, including Granny Smith and Fuji, which may ultimately alter your Apple Margarita or Flan de Manzana.