Recently, fruit lovers and social media stars alike have become interested in the "Pinkglow," an officially named pink pineapple.
Fresh Del Monte made this genetically modified miracle. It has rosy flesh and a sweeter taste, but is it really a new genetic marvel or just a clever marketing trick?
(Photo : Getty Images/ Randall Campos)
The Birth of the Pink Pineapple: How is it made?
The "Pinkglow" pineapple was created by genetic engineering, changing the DNA of a regular pineapple. Fresh Del Monte started working on this one-of-a-kind fruit in 2005, wanting to create something different in both look and taste.
The reddish-pink pigment lycopene in regular pineapples changes into the yellow pigment beta-carotene. However, "Pinkglow" keeps its pink color because this natural enzyme process has stopped.
Scientists did this by adding DNA from tangerines and using RNA silencing to lower the pineapple's enzymes that break down lycopene. They also made this plant immune to some herbicides by adding a gene from tobacco.
This was done so that the other changes could be tested. These gene changes give the "Pinkglow" its unique color and make it sweeter and juicier, making people who have tried it love it.
Safety and Regulation
Like all genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the "Pinkglow" pineapple underwent extensive testing and close government scrutiny before it was released into the market. The Costa Rican government and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said it was safe to eat the fruit.
The "Pinkglow" was also examined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which said it was safe and healthy like any other pineapple. Because of these thorough tests, people can use "Pinkglow" without considering whether it is secure.
Del Monte has marketed the "Pinkglow" pineapple to appeal to modern customers. With its eye-catching look and unique package, the "Pinkglow" is made to be Instagrammable.
This will encourage people to share and spread the word on social media. The "Pinkglow" website discusses how pretty the fruit is and tells people to "become the envy of your friends and followers."
This business plan is working. Fresh Del Monte said that pineapple sales went up a lot, with the "Pinkglow" variety helping to boost sales by 25% in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Recipes for drinks and foods made with "Pinkglow," like rum-soaked shortcakes and homemade tepache, make it even more appealing, making it a hip and helpful addition to any cook's collection.
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How Customers Reacted and What The Future Holds
People are interested in the "Pinkglow" even though it costs over twice as much as an average pineapple ($9.99 per pineapple). It's appealing because of its unique look and improved taste, especially for special events and social gatherings.
People's views on genetically modified foods may change because of the popularity of new and exciting foods like the "Pinkglow." The success of the "Pinkglow" could also help the food business accept GMOs more generally.
Previously, GMO products focused more on farming benefits, such as resistance to pests. The "Pinkglow," on the other hand, is appealing to consumers because it tastes good and looks good. This could change how people think about genetically altered foods and make them generally acceptable.
The "Pinkglow" pineapple isn't just a marketing trick. It shows how genetic engineering can create tasty and healthy foods. The fruit's increased sweetness and unique look also help it do well. One big reason for its fame is that it looks great on Instagram.
People are becoming increasingly interested in new and exciting foods that look good. The "Pinkglow" pineapple is an excellent example of how science and marketing can work together to make a product people love.
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