GM tomatoes are genetically engineered purple tomatoes

Scientists have grown genetically engineered purple tomatoes in an unusual effort to promote healthy eating habits. Tomato has two genes from the snapdragon flower to give a compound called anthocyanin (a chemical used to make pH indicator), the purple pigment found in high concentrations in fruits such as currants and expression blueberries.

Previous research has shown that anthocyanins protect against certain cancers, cardiovascular disease and degenerative diseases, and can also be a barrier to infection of obesity and diabetes. The study, published online Sunday in the journal Nature Biotechnology, published by the London-based Nature Publishing Group.

Researcher Cathie Martin John Innes Centre, a biotechnology institute in Norwich, eastern England, said the point behind the purple tomatoes was to strengthen health systems. Most people do not eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, but it may benefit those who eat more fruits and vegetables are so common in many bioactive substances will be developed.

After creating the purple tomatoes in the laboratory, the team tested the products on mice that were engineered to be susceptible to cancer. Rats fed high anthocyanin tomatoes showed a significant prolongation of life.