Question

Flavr Savr tomato is genetically modified

• A. To reduce its flowering
• B. To reduce its ripening rate
• C. To reduce its fruiting rate
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

To reduce its ripening rate

Flavr Savr is a genetically modified tomato. This was the first commercially grown genetically engineered food. Flavr Savr tomato is more resistant to rotting. This feature is due to the introduction of an antisense gene which interferes with the production of enzyme polygalacturonase. This enzyme is responsible for the degradation of pectin which is present in the cell wall of the fruit. This results in the softening and makes the fruit susceptible to fungal infections. The modified fruit has extended shelf life due to the reduction in the ripening rate.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.