The weekly weird |
Scientists create popcorn-scented tomato
Researchers from China and Australia have developed a genetically modified tomato that smells like buttered popcorn.
Using CRISPR-Cas9, scientists edited two genes in the Alisa Craig tomato variety to increase levels of 2-AP, a compound that gives popcorn its signature aroma. The changes increased the compound’s presence by more than four times.
Despite the modification, key traits such as fruit size, taste balance and vitamin C content remained unchanged. This breakthrough could lead to customised flavours in fruits and vegetables, potentially reshaping the future of food.
Camels disqualified over cosmetic enhancements
At a camel beauty contest in........