Gene editing has the potential to revolutionize the market for fruit crops in the coming years. Groundcherries have transitioned from being a wild fruit to a candidate for large-scale cultivation in just a few years. This tomato-like fruit is on the verge of becoming the next trending fruit. Groundcherries are considered promising for commercial growth due to their drought resilience and unique flavor, described by Lippman to Food Ingredients First as tropical, slightly sour, with hints of vanilla. The taste has also been characterized as a blend of tomato and pineapple.
This emerging berry crop could enhance the diversity of U.S. agricultural production and broaden the domestic fruit market for consumers. However, there are challenges ahead. Groundcherries are classified as “orphan crops,” meaning they are typically cultivated only on a regional or subsistence level. Due to issues like low yield, poor shelf life, and other constraints, orphan crops often struggle to break into mainstream agriculture, as noted by Food Ingredients First.
The rapid advancements in gene editing, which enabled scientists to make modifications to the groundcherry plant within two years, offer hope for similar crops. “This demonstrates that with gene editing, we can consider integrating other wild plants or orphan crops into agricultural systems. The more tools we have at our disposal to meet future agricultural demands, the better prepared we will be,” Lippman stated in a press release.
CRISPR technology allows researchers to quickly and precisely target specific regions within the genomes of crops like corn, soybeans, strawberries, and apples. This tool can be used to alter DNA to enhance sweetness, flavor, drought resistance, and shelf life. For example, Idaho’s J.R. Simplot Co. and its corporate and academic collaborators are currently applying CRISPR to reduce waste in potatoes, avocados, and strawberries caused by inadequate storage or shelf life.
Despite the promising benefits of the CRISPR gene-editing process, public apprehension may grow. Many consumers in the U.S. are still wary of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and prefer their food and beverage ingredients to be GMO-free. This skepticism could extend to concerns about altering the genetic structure of food itself. While some individuals favor natural foods and resist any modifications, others may feel uneasy about genetic alterations.
If groundcherries successfully penetrate the American market, adventurous consumers are likely to embrace it, as there is an increasing appetite for exotic flavors in fresh produce. Social media is also influencing this trend, as recipe-sharing platforms raise awareness of such unique items—particularly among millennials. The ease of finding ways to prepare exotic fruits online encourages more people to explore these options.
Although groundcherries may not immediately rival the popularity of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries among smaller fruits, they could eventually shine if producers can cultivate them in sufficient quantities. As consumers seek new taste experiences, the introduction of groundcherries may pave the way for exciting additions to the fruit market, similar to how products like Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc are becoming more sought after due to their health benefits. With continued interest in innovative produce, groundcherries might find their place in the spotlight, benefiting from the same growing trend that popularizes unique health products.