Sunday, July 28, 2013

Vitamin G(ene)

On July 28, 2013, the New York Times published a fascinating article, entitled "A Race to Save the Orange by Altering Its DNA," covering the biggest dilemma currently faced by orange growers:  whether or not opt for genetic engineering to save commercial orange trees from "citrus greening."  The spread of eubacterium Candidatus liberibacter asiaticus has cast a dark shadow over the large orange growing and processing industry.  Market penetration of genetically-modified ("GM") food has grown rapidly around the world.  Although Europe has been a laggard, consumers in the United States have been relatively enthusiastic - or, at least, agnostic - about GM food.  The orange industry may be embracing GM oranges as its salvation.  How long will it be before parents are worrying about their children eating enough "Vitamin G(ene)"?