Genomics help bring climate-smart strawberries in warmer regions

A Singapore-based company recently launched the world's first climate-resilient strawberry. Their purpose is to make strawberries more affordable to consumers while reducing the environmental impact of their production.

Genomics-based science is gaining popularity in the food industry, especially in developing nutrient-dense plant varieties resilient to drought and diseases. Advanced genomics is expected to aid strawberries' large-scale production in tropical countries by breaking seasonal and temperature barriers. This provides opportunities for growers and potentially reduce costs for consumers.

Strawberries are traditionally grown in temperate climates and then exported to tropical areas like Southeast Asia. Exporting them adds costs, and makes the fruit more expensive to consumers and also leaves a huge carbon footprint behind. But through genomics, Singrow developed a sustainable commercial strawberry variety that can withstand temperature changes and exhibit high-yield qualities.

According to the developers, genome-based technology is more productive than conventional breeding. The same technology can be used for other staple crops like rice, corn, and selected vegetables facing challenges brought on by climate change. They are currently expanding the list of their crop products.

More information can be found in the Asia Food Journal.