Tropic's Gene-Edited Bananas That Don't Brown Near UK Shelves

UK agri-biotech firm Tropic used CRISPR-Cas9 to edit all three copies of a single gene, cutting production of polyphenol oxidase, the enzyme behind browning. The bananas keep their peeled color for an extra day or two, longer when chilled, with the same taste and texture. Regulators in 10 countries, including Japan, Brazil and the Philippines, have approved the fruit.

• CRISPR-Cas9 edited all three copies of a single gene
• Flesh resists browning 1–2 days longer, more when chilled
• Approved in 10 countries including Japan, Brazil, Philippines
• Company claims over 25% cut in supply-chain CO2 emissions