Hope from genetically modified crop

31 August 1998

Hope from genetically modified crop

Monsanto is developing a new genetically-modified crop that can help prevent diseases linked to Vitamin A deficiencies.

Oil derived from the rape seed is being enhanced by scientists from the biotechnology concern to contain an increased level of beta-carotene, the precursor to Vitamin A.

High beta-carotene oil, the products working name, was created using a gene from a naturally occurring soil bacterium. Monsanto plans to introduce the product in 2002.