Tomato research proves why science matters
The success of a new variety of tomato produced using GM technology, which contains extra cancer-fighting compounds anthocyanins, exemplifies calls for more research and development into agricultural science.
In the NFU’s recent campaign ‘Why Science Matters for Farming’, calls for prod-uction and efficiency must be put at the top of the political agenda for agricultural research. The campaign also wants to see agriculture and horticulture recognised as high-tech industries that need science and research to allow them to deliver a huge range of goods and services that
society demands.
NFU chief science and regulatory affairs adviser Dr Helen Ferrier, author of the campaign report, said,“The success of the research at the John Innes Centre demonstrates the benefits of science and technology for agriculture to help combat some of the problems we face in the 21st century.
“We are being asked to produce more and more food for a growing population, and ensure we keep our impact on the environment to a minimum. Improving the nutritional quality of food is one important weapon in the battle against disease and malnutrition. Fruit and vegetables are an important target as people still struggle to consume the recommended daily amount.
“GM technologies are no longer new and we need to have a clear and open debate about their potential for making better plants that will have benefits to consumers and the environment.“The successful development of this tomato variety is another exciting application of GM technology. It also demonstrates the world class plant science going on in the UK. We hope this
fundamental science finds its way through the pipeline to
commercialisation.
