FDA approves genetically engineered potatoes, apples as safe

BOISE, Idaho — Potatoes that won't bruise and apples that won't brown are a step closer to grocery store aisles.

The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved the genetically engineered foods as safe, saying they are as nutritious as their conventional counterparts.

The approval covers six varieties of potatoes by Boise, Idaho-based J. R. Simplot Co. and two varieties of apples from the Canadian company Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc.

Simplot's potatoes go by the trade name "Innate," while Okanagan's apples are called "Arctic Apples."

The agency's review process is voluntary, and both companies asked for a review to ensure their products met safety standards.

Aware of potential resistance to its genetically modified potatoes, Simplot officials note that Innate potato traits come exclusively from domestic potato varieties.