Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been a hot topic for decades, sparking debates over safety, ethics, and environmental impact. But while some GMO foods like Bt corn and Roundup Ready soybeans have become agricultural staples, others never made it to our plates. These genetically engineered foods were abandoned due to the complexity of the biotechnological world.
1. The Flavr Savr Tomato: A Short-Lived Pioneer
The Flavr Savr tomato was the first genetically modified crop approved for human consumption in 1994. It was engineered to have a longer shelf life and better flavor. However, the tomatoes were often criticized for being too firm and lacking the juicy, sweet taste of traditional vine-ripened tomatoes. High production costs and issues with texture led to its quick extinction. The public’s distrust of early GMO intervention led to its withdrawal from the market.
2. Enviropig: The Pig That Could Save the Planet
Enviropig was genetically engineered to produce an enzyme called phytase in its saliva. This enzyme allowed the pig to digest phytate, the main form of phosphorus in its grain-based diet. Normally, pigs cannot digest phytate, leading to high levels of undigested phosphorus in their manure. This results in environmental issues like water pollution and algal blooms.
How It Worked:
- Researchers inserted a gene from the bacterium Escherichia coli and a promoter sequence from a mouse into the pig’s DNA.
- This modification enabled the pig to produce phytase in its saliva, which breaks down phytate and allows better absorption of phosphorus.
- As a result, the pig’s manure contained up to 60% less phosphorus, reducing environmental pollution.
Despite its environmental benefits, ethical concerns and a lack of consumer acceptance led to the project’s end in 2012.
3. The Innate Potato: A Case of Poor Timing
The Innate potato was designed to resist bruising and produce less acrylamide (a potential carcinogen) when fried. It was even approved by the FDA and USDA. However, with the rising demand for non-GMO products and public skepticism, it struggled to gain traction, leading to its limited presence in the market.
4. The Super Banana: Nutrient-Rich but Not Accepted
Aimed at combating vitamin A deficiency in Africa, the Super Banana was engineered to contain higher levels of beta-carotene. Field trials began in Uganda, but political pushback, cultural resistance, and anti-GMO activism halted its progress. It remains a controversial project, with its future uncertain.
5. Golden Rice: A Battle of Ideal
Golden Rice is genetically engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, in the edible part of the rice grain. It was developed to combat vitamin A deficiency, a major cause of preventable blindness and mortality due to immunodeficiency in children in developing countries. Yet, despite its humanitarian goal, it faced fierce opposition from anti-GMO groups and regulatory hurdles.
Why These GMOs Failed
The failure of these GMO foods to reach the market isn’t just about science or safety. It’s about public perception, politics, high production costs, ethical issues, and resistance from consumers.
https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/10/17/golden-rice-genetically-modified-superfood-almost-saved-millions/
https://phys.org/news/2014-07-biofortified-gm-food.html
https://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Genetically_modified_food
Food Hypocrites 
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