Australia has taken a significant step in agricultural innovation by approving the sale of genetically modified purple tomatoes, a first for the country. The Australian Gene Technology Regulator issued a licence for this unique crop in early January 2024, paving the way for its introduction into the market. These tomatoes, distinct in their vibrant purple hue, derive their colour from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants linked to various health benefits.
Dr. Joseph Pegler, a senior lecturer at the University of Newcastle, emphasizes the nutritional advantages of these tomatoes, stating that they are rich in anthocyanins, which are naturally occurring plant pigments. “They have been shown to provide protective effects against a range of human diseases,” Dr. Pegler noted. This tomato represents Australia’s first commercially approved genetically modified crop focused on nutritional biofortification rather than solely on agricultural performance.
Health Benefits and Approval Process
The purple tomato has been hailed as a noteworthy example of modern breeding technology. According to Professor Phil Brewer from La Trobe University, the tomatoes resulted from transferring two anthocyanin biosynthesis genes from snapdragon flowers into tomatoes. This genetic modification enhances the fruit’s anthocyanin levels, contributing to improved health properties.
Research suggests that increased consumption of anthocyanins may protect against heart disease, improve vision, and offer anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic effects. Professor Brewer indicated that studies have shown these tomatoes can extend the lifespan of cancer-susceptible mice, highlighting their potential impact on human health.
The approval process for the purple tomato involved rigorous scientific assessment under the Gene Technology Act 2000. Both the Australian Gene Technology Regulator and Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) confirmed that the genetically modified tomato is as safe for consumption as conventional tomatoes found in Australian and New Zealand food supplies.
Market Introduction and Distribution Plans
Dr. Heather Bray from the University of Western Australia has stated that once available in supermarkets, the purple tomatoes will be labelled as genetically modified, although this requirement will not apply to food served in restaurants and cafes. The seed company Norfolk Healthy Produce has partnered with All Aussie Farmers to distribute the product, which is expected to hit the market around spring 2024.
Travis Murphy, managing director of All Aussie Farmers, confirmed that they anticipate receiving seeds within the next month, with plans for cultivation in rural Queensland. Murphy expressed the company’s objective to introduce the product to niche markets, stating, “We want to target stores that want that point of difference,” and mentioned potential direct sales to Harris Farm.
The launch of the purple tomato, branded as Purple Bliss, is seen as a critical moment in the evolution of food innovation in Australia. The successful release and acceptance of this product could set a precedent for future genetically modified crops aimed at enhancing nutritional value, thereby contributing to public health and food security.
