09.01.06
HortResearch Studies Fruit Genes
Researches at HortResearch, Auckland, New Zealand, say they have fine-tuned the science of gene discovery to such a degree that they can accurately determine which genes create the individual flavors and fragrances found in fruits and flowers. It should be possible for the natural tastes and aromas of fruit to be recreated if combined with traditional biofermentation techniques. Biofermentation can produce large amounts of a desired compound at a low cost and with little environmental impact. And because biofermentation uses the actual genes that plants use in the wild, the resulting flavor or fragrance compound has exactly the same molecular make-up. HortResearch has proven the bioproduction concept can be used to produce fruit flavors and fragrances by perfectly recreating a fruit compound called alpha-farnesene, responsible for the distinctive aroma of green apples. The company has filed international patent applications on the use of the applicable gene in creating the fragrance, and for another plant gene responsible for making a compound that smells like the heady scent of red roses.
Highland Laboratories Introduces Earth-Friendly Vitamin Bottles to U.S. Market
Highland Laboratories, Mt. Angel, OR, has become the first in the U.S. to package supplements in Earth-friendly corn-based bottles. Developed by NatureWorks LLC, a Cargill company, the bottles are made from corn-based dextrose instead of petroleum. Known as NatureWorks PLA, the material is the world’s first greenhouse-gas neutral polymer. These Earth-friendly bottles use 68% less fossil fuel than petroleum-based plastics. The technology is finding its way into various packaging forms, including beverage containers and “to-go” food boxes at natural food stores. Highland Laboratories is the first dietary supplement manufacturer to use the innovative apples. The company has filed international patent applications on the use of the applicable gene in creating the fragrance, and for another plant gene responsible for making a compound that smells like the heady scent of red roses.
Researches at HortResearch, Auckland, New Zealand, say they have fine-tuned the science of gene discovery to such a degree that they can accurately determine which genes create the individual flavors and fragrances found in fruits and flowers. It should be possible for the natural tastes and aromas of fruit to be recreated if combined with traditional biofermentation techniques. Biofermentation can produce large amounts of a desired compound at a low cost and with little environmental impact. And because biofermentation uses the actual genes that plants use in the wild, the resulting flavor or fragrance compound has exactly the same molecular make-up. HortResearch has proven the bioproduction concept can be used to produce fruit flavors and fragrances by perfectly recreating a fruit compound called alpha-farnesene, responsible for the distinctive aroma of green apples. The company has filed international patent applications on the use of the applicable gene in creating the fragrance, and for another plant gene responsible for making a compound that smells like the heady scent of red roses.
Highland Laboratories Introduces Earth-Friendly Vitamin Bottles to U.S. Market
Highland Laboratories, Mt. Angel, OR, has become the first in the U.S. to package supplements in Earth-friendly corn-based bottles. Developed by NatureWorks LLC, a Cargill company, the bottles are made from corn-based dextrose instead of petroleum. Known as NatureWorks PLA, the material is the world’s first greenhouse-gas neutral polymer. These Earth-friendly bottles use 68% less fossil fuel than petroleum-based plastics. The technology is finding its way into various packaging forms, including beverage containers and “to-go” food boxes at natural food stores. Highland Laboratories is the first dietary supplement manufacturer to use the innovative apples. The company has filed international patent applications on the use of the applicable gene in creating the fragrance, and for another plant gene responsible for making a compound that smells like the heady scent of red roses.
