Problem 8 - Biology

Question

The Flavr Savr Tomato: a. is a variety of vine-ripened tomato in the supermarket b. was created to have better flavor and shelflife c. does not undergo soft rot d. all of the above

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

d. all of the above

Step 1: Understand the Question

The question asks us to identify the correct description of the Flavr Savr Tomato from the given options.

Step 2: Analyze Option A

Option A states that the Flavr Savr Tomato is a variety of vine-ripened tomato found in supermarkets. This is generally true as they are sold in supermarkets.

Step 3: Analyze Option B

Option B claims the Flavr Savr Tomato was created to have better flavor and shelf life. This is correct as the genetic modification was aimed at enhancing these properties.

Step 4: Analyze Option C

Option C mentions that the Flavr Savr Tomato does not undergo soft rot. This is true since the genetic modifications also help prevent soft rot.

Step 5: Analyze Option D

Option D states 'all of the above'. Since the statements in options A, B, and C are all correct, this option is also correct.

Step 6: Conclusion

Since all the individual options (A, B, and C) are correct, the correct answer to this multiple-choice question is option D.

Key Concepts

genetic modification

The Flavr Savr Tomato is a groundbreaking achievement in the field of genetic modification. Genetic modification involves altering the DNA of an organism to achieve desirable traits.
For the Flavr Savr Tomato, scientists used this technology to delay the ripening and softening process.
This was primarily done by suppressing a gene responsible for producing an enzyme that causes the fruit to soften.

This process involved several steps:

• Identifying the gene responsible for softening
• Using a technique known as antisense technology to insert a mirror image of that gene
• Testing the modified plants to ensure the desired outcome

Through these steps, the result was a tomato that stayed firm longer, allowing it to ripen on the vine while maintaining a desirable texture and flavor when it reached consumers.

shelf life

One of the main benefits of the Flavr Savr Tomato is its improved shelf life. Traditional tomatoes start to spoil soon after they are picked, leading to significant waste.

The genetic modifications in the Flavr Savr Tomato slow down the ripening process. This allows the tomatoes to stay fresh for a longer period.
Enhanced shelf life not only benefits consumers but also retailers, as it reduces spoilage-related losses.
Moreover, it provides several advantages:

• Reducing food waste by keeping produce fresh longer
• Enabling long-distance transportation, which benefits global markets
• Allowing tomatoes to ripen naturally on the vine, enhancing their flavor

These traits make the Flavr Savr Tomato a significant improvement over traditional varieties, combining better taste with longer usability.

soft rot prevention

Soft rot is a common problem in tomatoes, often caused by bacterial infection. It leads to the fruit becoming mushy and inedible.
The genetic modifications applied to the Flavr Savr Tomato help prevent this issue.

By downregulating the gene that produces the enzyme polygalacturonase, responsible for breaking down the cell walls in tomatoes, the Flavr Savr avoids common spoilage problems.
This means:

• Tomatoes remain firm and fresh for longer durations
• Less likelihood of bacterial infection spoiling the fruit
• Increased consumer satisfaction due to improved texture and quality

Through these modifications, the Flavr Savr Tomato offers a robust solution to one of the biggest issues in tomato storage and transportation.