BASF's GM potatotes are resistant to late blight Photo: BASF

BASF Plant Science is to actively target crops with higher nutritional values, the company announced at its Metanomics plant in Berlin, Germany last month.  

BASF Plant Science is in the process of developing genetically modified potatoes resistant to late blight (Phytophthora infestans).  Late blight destroys an estimated 20% of the world’s harvest of potatoes every year. 

Genes from wild potato species resistant to the fungus were introduced in commercially grown potato varieties in field trials that began in 2005. 

The new product, which will be available within five to ten years, will offer healthier plants and tubers, a secure harvest and will stabilise prices, says BASF.
By Simon Varcoe

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