The people behind the Mac brand have worked hard during the past decade to catapult it to near celebrity status. Many experts would agree that their efforts have proven exceedingly successful. Mac has revolutionized the way people think about computers, much in the way its iPod and iPhone have changed the way consumers think about music and communication, respectively. But it’s not the only giant changing minds out there. Monsanto, the agricultural behemoth responsible for popularizing genetic modification, is also on its way to altering the way consumers think—about traditional food ingredients. Recently, the company unveiled its latest invention: genetically modified soybean plants that contain omega 3s. In fact, in late October, FDA said Monsanto’s omega 3 soybeans are safe to eat, paving the way for the company to move forward with application development.

There are a few reasons this could be big for Monsanto. First, the company’s soybeans are so ubiquitous in the food supply (at least in the U.S) that virtually all consumers would be touched in some way by this creation—therefore, according to the company, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. Second, the rising popularity of omega 3s, some experts claim, currently poses a threat to global fish stocks. Providing another means for consumers to get their omega 3s may relieve some of that pressure. Lastly, this development could simultaneously change the way consumers view Monsanto. Instead of being perceived as a company using genetic modification for purely financial gain, this development could showcase Monsanto as a company using genetic modification to do good.

In terms of specifics, Monsanto has developed soybeans that provide oil enriched in an omega 3 fatty acid called stearidonic acid (SDA). The body converts SDA to EPA more efficiently, compared to current plant sources (ALA), because it bypasses a step in the conversion process, according to Ernie Sanders, omega 3 team lead.“SDA is also more stable and easier to work with than fish oil (EPA and DHA acids),” he says. The company claims SDA soybeans will result in a wider range of foods enriched in omega 3s than what is currently on the market, while providing improved flavor stability.

“SDA soybeans have been processed to provide high-quality SDA oil, similar to commercial soybean oil, which can be used in a wide variety of traditional consumer products,” said Rick Wilkes, director of food applications. In addition, he says the current source of omega 3 fish oil doesn’t lend itself well to food processing.“Fish oil has a short shelf-life requiring refrigeration and a very poor taste. Also, it is still very expensive to add to food.”The new GM soybeans could be on their way to a supermarket near you very soon. As a result of its collaboration with Solae, Monsanto will be able to access patented, genetic, food formulation and stabilization technologies in the omega 3 field.

Monsanto is not alone. According to an article in the New Scientist, BASF and Du Pont are developing innovative omega 3 creations of their own. BASF’s GM canola plants produce similar oils, while Du Pont makes them by fermenting microorganisms. There will be plenty of apps for those too.

Rebecca Wright
Editor
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