Nov 8, 2011BASF applies for approval of GM potato
BASF Plant Science has applied for European Union approval for Fortuna, a genetically modified potato. The application for approval from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is for commercial cultivation and consumption by humans and animals. EFSA will assess the safety for humans, animals and the environment.
According to the BASF press release researchers have given Fortuna complete resistance to late blight through transferring two resistance genes from a South American wild potato.
In the press release Peter Eckes, president of BASF Plant Science, said that “Fortuna offers complete protection from one of the world’s most persistent potato diseases.”
According to the BASF website, research efforts on the disease-resistant potato began in 2003. Fortuna has been tested in field trials for six years. Market introduction is expected for 2014 or 2015.
