Genetically modified purple tomatoes get green light to be sold in Australia

"Caprese salads could take on a new hue after genetically modified purple tomatoes cleared regulatory hurdles, raising expectations they would become the first GM fresh food available in Australian green grocers. The genetically engineered Purple Bliss tomatoes developed by Norfolk Healthy Produce gain their vibrant violet from the genes of snapdragon flowers. The tomato has been modified to produce pigments called anthocyanins, which are found in blueberries and blackberries and thought to have antioxidant properties."

"When sold, the tomatoes, and products containing them, must be labelled as genetically modified. Separately, a licence issued by Australia's Gene Technology Regulator enabled the tomato to be grown in Australia, similar to conventional varieties. No specific measures were imposed to manage risk, with the regulator determining the fruit's release posed negligible risk to the health and safety of people or the environment."

Purple Bliss tomatoes are genetically engineered using snapdragon genes to produce anthocyanin pigments that give a deep purple color and potential antioxidant properties. Food Standards Australia New Zealand cleared the fruit to be sold fresh, whole, or as an ingredient in processed foods, with mandatory labelling indicating genetic modification. Australia's Gene Technology Regulator issued a licence permitting cultivation with no additional risk-management measures, finding negligible risk to human health and the environment. The tomatoes are cherry-sized, deep purple, and described as sweeter and juicier than typical tomatoes. They can be eaten raw, used in salads, or processed into purple sauces and pastes.

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