Calgene Inc. Biotechnology is one tool being used to address this problem. New methods of biotechnology allow scientists to identify a gene that produces a particular trait and transfer a copy of it to another plant. Researchers are using this technique to improve methods of food production, to increase the variety and quality of foods, and to reduce agricultural impact on the environment. Calgene researchers removed the gene that produces PG, copied it and reinserted the copy into the plant backwards. The tomatoes can remain longer on the vine to develop their natural flavor, but stay firm enough to be shipped to the market.
Manufacturers have the responsibility to prove that a new food product is safe.
Government approval is also required if the food contains an allergen or if the nutritional content has been changed. Following this policy, Calgene consulted FDA about use of a marker gene in the Flavr Savr and filed a food additive petition. Calgene also sought an official review of the overall safety of the Flavr Savr to assure consumers that every potential safety question had been answered. Throughout Calgene's five-year consultation with FDA, the agency reviewed data on the genes involved as well as analytical studies on the composition of the tomato, including the levels of nutrients and natural toxicants. FDA also examined the results of feeding studies and reviewed the determination by the U.S. Depart-ment of Agriculture that growing the tomatoes poses no environmental risks.