Text: Correspondent Iara Siqueira
Tomatoes are usually reddish, green, and even yellow in color. A new tomato variety bred in the United States could hit supermarket shelves by 2023. We’re talking purple tomatoes that have been scientifically modified by researchers and may have a longer shelf life than traditional tomatoes.
It tastes like a tomato, smells and even a tomato, the only difference is its color: purple. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved the genetically modified vegetables for US supermarket shelves and stores by next year. In a press release, the Department of Agriculture said the plant is safe to grow and use for propagation.
In addition to the peculiarity in color, the fruit brings health benefits, according to scientists. The strain was developed by a research team that includes British professor Cathie Martin from the University of East Anglia in England. In an interview with CNN, the biochemist, who works on the production of pigments in flowers, said that “the new tomatoes are rich in anthocyanins and have greater antioxidant capacity,” she concludes.