Australian regulators are reviewing a proposal to approve the cultivation and sale of a genetically modified purple tomato, potentially expanding the nation’s limited list of approved genetically modified (GM) crops. If successful, the tomato could be commercially available by next year, with initial production planned in greenhouses in south-east Queensland. Developed by UK-based scientists and commercialized by U.S. firm Norfolk Healthy Produce, the purple tomato has been engineered to contain genes from the snapdragon flower.
These genes enable the tomato to produce anthocyanins, naturally occurring antioxidants also found in blueberries, blackberries, and eggplant skins. The resulting pigmentation gives the tomato its distinct purple hue. Dr. Nathan Pumplin, Chief Executive of Norfolk Healthy Produce, said the tomato offers enhanced nutritional properties without altering its essential nature. “It’s just a tomato,” he said, “what’s special is that it contains the same antioxidants found in other purple fruits.”
The research behind the product originated at the John Innes Centre in the UK, led by Professor Cathie Martin. A co-founder of Norfolk Plant Sciences, Professor Martin is a recognized authority on the nutritional content of fruit and vegetables. Her research culminated in the development of the purple tomato after 18 years of work, earning her the prestigious Rank Prize for Nutrition. The tomato has already gained regulatory approval in the United States, where it has been sold for two years.
In 2024 alone, over 100,000 punnets of the fruit and 13,000 seed packets were sold across the country. Following this success, the company is targeting international markets, including Australia and Canada. In Australia, All Aussie Farmers, a Victorian produce marketing company, has partnered with Norfolk to distribute the fruit domestically. Managing Director Travis Murphy said the product has generated strong interest from both retailers and chefs. Pending regulatory approval, initial rollout will be in Melbourne.
Australia maintains strict oversight on GM crops, with only five currently approved: canola, cotton, safflower, bananas, and flowers. The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) is assessing the safety of the purple tomato for human health and environmental impact. A public consultation period will commence in September as part of the review process. In addition, Food Standards Australia New Zealand will conduct a safety assessment before the product is cleared for consumption. Experts such as Professor James Dale from Queensland University of Technology note that the approval process is rigorous, often requiring extensive documentation and trial data to ensure safety and compliance. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.