The U.S. apple industry has reiterated its opposition to the deregulation of a new genetically modified non-browning apple, claiming it will pose a threat to exports.

U.S. Apple Association membership and communications director Mark A. Gedris, told www.freshfruitportal.com his organization was against Okanagan Specialty Fruits' gaining approval for widespread sale of its Arctic brand of Golden and Granny apples.

"We export 25-30% of our apples and there are lots of places which don't accept genetically modified food. People aren't calling for this.

"You can have lower browning by variety or treating them with apple juice. So why do we need to introduce this apple into the marketplace?"

He added that McDonald's was already selling non-browning apple slices in its happy meal boxes and that Crunch Pak was distributing pre-sliced apples to a wide selection of stores.

Gedris said his organization was in favor of technical and genetic research but said it was important to have a national debate before widespread retail distribution of a genetically modified apple in the U.S.

The USDA's Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced on Jul. 13 it was opening its review of the Arctic apple brand for public comment, with the deadline for the first comment period closing on Sept. 11. The second comment period is expected in the fall.

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Photo: Okanagan Specialty Fruits

www.freshfruitportal.com