Understanding Genetic Modification in Apples
When you bite into a freshly sliced apple, you expect it to remain crisp and white. However, the natural process of oxidation quickly turns the exposed flesh brown. While this is harmless, it's a trait that some find unappealing and that contributes to food waste. To address this, a Canadian company developed a genetically modified (GM) apple with a specific purpose: to stop the browning reaction. This genetically engineered apple is sold under the brand name Arctic® apples.
The Creation of Arctic® Apples
Arctic® apples were developed by Okanagan Specialty Fruits through a technique known as RNA interference (RNAi). This is a precise biotechnology method used to "silence" or turn off certain genes. In the case of Arctic® apples, scientists used RNAi to suppress the enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO), which is responsible for the browning reaction. With the PPO production significantly reduced, the apple's flesh remains its original color for longer when cut or bruised.
Varieties of GMO Apples
Unlike many other GM crops that benefit farmers, Arctic® apples were specifically created with the consumer in mind to provide convenience and reduce food waste. As of late 2024, the following varieties of Arctic® apples have been approved and are in production in the United States:
- Arctic® Golden Delicious
- Arctic® Granny Smith
- Arctic® Fuji
In addition to these, Okanagan Specialty Fruits has also developed and is seeking approval for Arctic® Gala and Arctic® Honeycrisp apples.
Identifying GMO Apples at the Store
It's important to remember that you will not find every Golden Delicious or Granny Smith apple in the store to be a GMO. The vast majority of apple varieties are traditionally bred and non-GMO. So how do you identify the genetically modified ones?
First, Arctic® apples are primarily sold in packaged formats, such as pre-sliced bags or dried apple snacks, rather than as whole, individual apples in the produce aisle. The packaging is clearly branded with the Arctic® name and a distinctive snowflake logo. Secondly, under the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, all bioengineered foods sold directly to consumers in the US must carry a disclosure. This might be a "Bioengineered" label, a logo, or a scannable QR code that provides more information. It's worth noting that this labeling is not required for products sold to foodservice venues like restaurants, schools, and hospitals, which is where many Arctic® apples are distributed.
GMO vs. Conventional Apple Breeding
| Feature | Genetically Engineered (Arctic®) | Traditional Breeding | Non-GMO Alternative (Opal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Method | Genetic engineering (RNAi) to silence PPO enzyme. | Cross-pollination and selective breeding over generations. | Traditional cross-breeding. |
| Purpose | To prevent enzymatic browning when sliced or bruised. | To develop desirable traits like flavor, texture, and disease resistance. | To create a non-browning apple through natural breeding. |
| Resulting Product | Varieties that don't turn brown when cut. | A wide array of unique apple varieties with diverse traits. | A specific non-GMO apple variety (Opal) with non-browning trait. |
| Consumer Form | Primarily pre-sliced bags and snacks. | Typically sold whole, in produce sections. | Sold whole or sliced, depending on the retailer. |
The Safety of GMO Apples
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Department of Agriculture (USDA) conducted extensive safety evaluations of Arctic® apples. In 2015, they concluded that the non-browning apples were as safe and nutritious as their conventional counterparts. Similarly, Canadian health regulators also deemed them safe for human, livestock, and environmental health. Supporters argue that this innovation could lead to less food waste at both the consumer and commercial level, as fewer apples would be discarded simply due to cosmetic browning.
A Non-GMO Non-Browning Alternative
For consumers who prefer a non-GMO product but still want an apple that doesn't brown as quickly, there are traditionally bred alternatives. The Opal apple is an excellent example. Created through traditional cross-breeding, the Opal is naturally slow to brown and is verified by the Non-GMO Project. This shows that innovative solutions can sometimes be achieved through traditional breeding methods, though genetic engineering offers a more rapid and precise pathway.
Conclusion
In summary, the question of which apples are GMOs has a very specific answer: only Arctic® apples are genetically modified. They are engineered to prevent browning and are sold pre-packaged under the Arctic® brand name. The vast majority of apple varieties, including the Gala, Honeycrisp, and Red Delicious you find in stores, are non-GMO and were developed using traditional breeding methods. By understanding the difference and recognizing the specific labeling, consumers can make informed choices about the apples they purchase.
Learn more about different apple varieties and their development at the USApple website: https://usapple.org/news-resources/arctic-apples-backgrounder.
