Radiation has its purposes when it comes to mutating the genetic structure of plants. Microwaving orchids has produced quite a few happy accidents. Dr. Pierre Lagoda the head of plant breeding and genetics at the International Atomic Energy Agency, has been rolling the dice for decades using radiation to scramble the genetic material in crops, a process that has produced valuable mutants like red grapefruit, disease-resistant cocoa and premium barley for Scotch whiskey. (NY Times)
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Enrique Gili is a freelance writer covering Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS), issues for regional magazines in the Southland and beyond. I live in Ocean Beach, San Diego the coolest beach town around.
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Useful Mutants Alter Crops
Category: Food&Drink • Health
Posted on: August 29, 2007 11:32 AM, by EJGili
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