University of Florida scientists have developed a tomato packed with significantly higher levels of vitamin A, a breakthrough that could help combat one of the world’s most widespread nutritional deficiencies.
In newly published research by Jingwei Fu, Denise Tieman and Bala Rathinasabapathi from UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), the researchers introduce fortified tomatoes with boosted beta-carotene—the compound the body converts to vitamin A.
“The levels of beta-carotene found in the improved tomatoes are more than those found in market tomatoes and in many beta-carotene-rich foods like kale and sweet potatoes,” said Rathinasabapathi, professor of horticultural sciences at UF/IFAS.
Vitamin A deficiency, which impairs growth, red blood cell production, immunity and eyesight, affects 345 million people across 79 countries. Children and pregnant women in impoverished societies are particularly vulnerable. Daily consumption of 50 to 100 grams of these tomatoes can efficiently address vitamin A deficiency, Rathinasabapathi said.
Click here for more about the new research.
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ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
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