The US company Monsanto has unveiled its latest biotechnology crop which it predicts will help prevent vitamin A deficiency, affecting up to 800 million people.
Oil derived from the rape seed plant - a member of the mustard family - has been genetically enhanced by Monsanto scientists to contain an increased level of betacarotene, the precursor of vitamin A. Adults and especially children in developing countries frequently experience vitamin A deficiency-related diseases, including night blindness, which ultimately leads to permanent loss of vision, loss of immune system functions and inability to absorb proteins.
"The sophisticated nature of biotechnology provides the ability to create healthier, more nutritious foods which are designed to address specific nutritional needs in particular areas of the world," says Dr Ganesh Kishore, Monsanto's chief biotechnologist and head of its nutrition sector.
The company believes it can provide a cost-efficient way to deliver nutrition to those who cannot afford vegetables or don't have access to dietary supplements but whose diets already include rape seed oil, he said.
High beta-carotene levels were generated using a gene from a naturally-occurring soil bacterium, which is closely related to the plant gene normally responsible for regulating levels of beta-carotene in rape seed. Fresh fruit and vegetables, fortified milk and cereals are the main sources of the vitamin, but in some developing areas, where the diet consists mainly of rice and pulses, deficiencies can easily occur.
Monsanto claims one teaspoon of its oil will provide the daily recommended intake for an adult. "This is an innovative way of fortifying foods directly at the level of the farmer which also contributes to the sustainability of this planet," Dr Kishore says.
The company is currently conducting field trials in the US. Extensive safety tests, which will attempt to determine appropriate human consumption levels, should be completed over the next few years.