José Crespo

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Transgenic theobroma cacao

user image 2014-08-17
By: José Crespo
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Reading some papers about cacao propagation I stumbled upon a granted patent on embryogenesis procedure on theobroma cacao tree. What I found alarming is that as long as a decade there're methods to introduce external traits to the embryo. Oficially creating a GMO cacao tree.

Here's some extract from the document :

"A foreign gene is intended to mean any gene or polynucleotide not naturally found in cacao. In addition, this technology enables the development of transgenic cacao varieties with improved agronomic performance characteristics, and provides a new experimental system for study of gene expression and function, in cacao. The use of cacao varieties improved via the utilization of transformation technology also facilitates the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices in cacao cultivation, and eventually helps maintain a healthy tropical forest ecosystem."

What!

Can someone confirm if some GMO cacao exists in production farms?

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