Introduction
Welcome to the first entry in an exciting new series for Biostache. GMO Bite is a bite-sized look at a GMO you may or may not have heard about yet. Today’s Bite features the “Pinkglow” Pineapple, a fresh take on an already exotic fruit. Pinkglow Pineapple is a genetically modified pineapple characterised by its vibrant pink flesh which has enticed consumers for its novel and aesthetic value.
American company Del Monte Fresh Produce, more known for their canned fruit products, developed their product to appeal to new markets looking for social media’s newest thing. The pineapple was developed by incorporating lycopene production into the flesh of the fruit. Lycopene, a pigment found naturally in tomatoes and watermelons, gives the Pinkglow Pineapple its signature hue.
News and Controversies
Pink is the colour of money apparently as Del Monte made over $62 million US from its new pineapple varieties, helping to deliver a 26% increase in gross profit year-over-year. These numbers highlight the consumer’s thirst for new and eye-catching products that make a statement.
Many consumers may be put off by the price tag of one of these beauties. Prices range from $29 to $39 online, or ten dollars at the store if you can find one at your local produce provider. Are these prices justified? Maybe when you consider the first pineapples could fetch up to $8000 in the American colonies. Ultimately it comes down to an individuals choice. If they can afford to pay this price for a pineapple, I see no problem with it.
Other problems have arisen due to the unlawful sale of the fruit by third parties in Costa Rica. Pinkglow pineapples are of course registered to Fresh Del Monte for exclusive use. So they are understandably peeved that their bottom line is being eaten into.
Conclusions
Although pink pineapples won’t contribute in any meaningful way to ensure food security like other GM crops, they help to increase the acceptance of gene-edited foods in society and the wider adoption of beneficial crops.