The Difference Between Conventional and Innate® Russet Potatoes
For years, the rugged, brown-skinned russet potato has been a staple in kitchens, prized for baking, mashing, and frying. Traditionally, these potatoes are not genetically modified organisms (GMOs). However, in recent years, the J.R. Simplot Company introduced new potato varieties under the Innate® brand, which are genetically engineered versions of existing potatoes, including the Russet Burbank and Ranger Russet varieties.
These Innate® potatoes were developed to address some common issues associated with potatoes, such as bruising, browning, and the formation of a compound called acrylamide when cooked at high temperatures. This was achieved by using a process called RNA interference (RNAi) to 'silence' certain genes within the potato itself. The result is a potato that is more resilient to damage and potentially safer for consumption due to reduced acrylamide levels.
How Innate® Technology Works
Unlike older forms of genetic engineering that introduced genes from unrelated species, Innate® potatoes use genes that are “innate” to potatoes themselves. This makes the process less controversial for some, as no foreign genetic material is introduced. The core purpose of this technology is to make the potato more efficient and sustainable by:
- Reducing the black spots and bruising that cause food waste.
- Lowering the levels of asparagine, which becomes acrylamide when heated.
- In later generations, adding resistance to late blight, a devastating potato disease.
Identifying GMO Russet Potatoes in the Supermarket
For most consumers, the key to knowing whether a russet potato is a GMO or not comes down to proper labeling. The USDA requires disclosure for foods that are bioengineered (BE), which includes Innate® potatoes. Here are some key points to look for:
- Look for Labels: Whole, raw potatoes that are bioengineered should be labeled. Consumers may find text, a phone number, or the official Bioengineered (BE) logo on the packaging.
- Check for Brand Names: Be vigilant for potatoes marketed as “White Russet™” or branded under the “Innate®” name, especially when they boast traits like “reduced bruising” or “fewer black spots”.
- Consider Organic: Buying potatoes certified as organic is a surefire way to avoid GMOs, as organic standards prohibit the use of genetically modified crops. Many supermarkets and health food stores offer certified organic russet varieties.
- Bulk vs. Packaged: Innate® potatoes are typically sold in packaged bags, not as loose bulk potatoes. This means that if you are buying individual russets from a bulk display, they are very likely not the bioengineered variety. If they were, they would have to be labeled.
Innate® vs. Non-GMO Russet Potatoes
| Trait | Innate® (GMO) Russet Potato | Conventional Russet Potato | Organic Russet Potato |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genetic Modification | Yes, genetically engineered using RNAi. | No, traditional breeding methods. | No, organic standards prohibit GMOs. |
| Bruising | Reduces bruising and black spots. | Susceptible to bruising and black spots. | Susceptible to bruising and black spots. |
| Browning | Stays white longer after being peeled or cut. | Browns more quickly when peeled or cut. | Browns more quickly when peeled or cut. |
| Acrylamide | Significantly lower levels when cooked at high heat. | Normal levels when cooked at high heat. | Normal levels when cooked at high heat. |
| Blight Resistance | Innate® 2.0 varieties have blight resistance. | May be susceptible, requires fungicide treatment. | May be susceptible, managed with organic methods. |
| Labeling | Must carry a Bioengineered (BE) disclosure. | No special labeling required regarding GMO status. | Must be certified organic and carry the label. |
Making an Informed Decision for Your Diet
When it comes to nutrition, a key takeaway is that regulatory agencies like the FDA have deemed Innate® potatoes to be nutritionally equivalent to their non-GMO counterparts. The choice, therefore, often comes down to consumer preference and priorities regarding agricultural practices and food technology.
For some, the benefits of Innate® potatoes—such as less food waste and lower potential carcinogens—outweigh the desire to avoid GMOs entirely. For others, the preference for natural, organic food is paramount. Regardless of your stance, here are some key considerations to guide your decisions:
- Prioritize reduced waste: If minimizing food spoilage is a top concern, the reduced bruising and browning of Innate® potatoes may be appealing. The developer of these potatoes estimates this could significantly cut down on discarded potatoes.
- Avoid GMOs: If you wish to strictly avoid genetically modified foods, your safest options are to buy certified organic potatoes or to look for conventional potatoes sold loose in bulk, as these are typically not the Innate® variety. Always check the packaging for BE labels when buying bagged potatoes.
- Focus on overall nutrition: Remember that all types of russet potatoes, whether conventional, organic, or Innate®, offer valuable nutrients like potassium and vitamin C. Whichever you choose, incorporating them into a balanced diet is a healthy choice.
Conclusion
So, are russet potatoes GMO or not? The answer is nuanced: while the classic russet is not genetically engineered, specific GMO versions, known as Innate® potatoes, do exist. These are designed to improve quality by resisting bruising and lowering a potential toxin, but they must be labeled as bioengineered. For consumers, this means you can confidently purchase most conventional russets without concern for genetic modification, but it is important to check for the BE label if buying packaged potatoes, particularly those with reduced browning claims. Opting for organic potatoes is the simplest way to guarantee non-GMO status. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal priorities regarding food technology and your nutrition diet.
