Dive Brief:
- McDonald's says it won't buy the new genetically modified potato developed by its longtime supplier, J.R. Simplot Co.
- The fast food giant's decision, made just days after the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved the Simplot Innate line of potatoes, suggests that food buyers have little stomach for new GMO foods, given consumers' concerns.
- The fast food industry and dehydrated potato processors have both openly urged growers not to plant the Simplot Innate.
Dive Insight:
GMO food is, if you'll pardon the pun, a bit of a hot potato these days. It's not easy to get buyers and growers to take on the market risks associated with a controversial crop. If there is a market for Simplot's Innate, it will have to come slowly, as the company works to convince buyers the benefits outweigh the risks.