A breakthrough in apple gene sequencing at HortResearch revealed this week has the capacity to revolutionise the apple industry.

The New Zealanders have tapped the genetic secrets of taste and colour and will be able to release more than 50,000 apple gene sequences.

“By understanding fruit at a genetic level, we are able to unlock the true potential of nature and present industry with products that meet consumer demand for attractive, novel exciting new fruits that taste great, are healthy, convenient, safe and sustainably produced,” said HortResearch’s chief scientist Dr Ian Ferguson.

The announcement was accompanied by the unveiling of a stunning, new, red-fleshed apple. The colour is due to a naturally high concentration of anthocyanin - an antioxidant. Given HortResearch’s advances in genomic science techniques the fruit could become commercially available in 10 years. Ferguson said he believes the red apple has commercial promise as Jazz apples or Zespri Gold . l kkkiwkiwifruit,also bred by HortResearch.

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