Biotech Apples May Beat Sunburn

The most effective way to combat apple sunburn is to use biotechnology, according to Prof. Larry Schrader, an expert on the disorder from Washington State University.

"Genetic modification is broader than genetic engineering in that modification includes conventional plant breeding that's been done for decades," Schrader said. Varieties for breeding are chosen for desired traits. More education about these issues is needed to help the public understand that genetically modified fruit is safe," he added.

Sunburn browning occurs when the fruit surface temperature (FST) is between 115 and 120 °F, depending on the apple variety; damaging ultraviolet (UV-B) rays are also required in the process. A yellow, bronze or brown spot forms on the sun-exposed side of the peel, but may not be evident for a few days after the damage is done. This disorder costs apple growers tens of millions of dollars per year.

Read the original story at http://www.growersforwheatbiotechnology.org/html/news.cfm?ID=1079. Know more about apple sunburn at http://jenny.tfrec.wsu.edu/eb0419/web/Fruit_Protectants/Apple_Sunburn.