Final answer:
Developing GM plants with delayed fruit ripening extends shelf life, allowing fruits to be shipped further and reduces waste. The FlavrSavr Tomato was an early GM crop with these traits, paving the way for future enhancements in crop durability and quality.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the benefits of developing genetically modified (GM) plants that have delayed fruit ripening processes is the ability to extend the shelf life of the fruit. This extended shelf life allows fruits to stay on the plant longer, which enhances their flavor and nutritional value. Additionally, it allows for fruits to be shipped over greater distances without spoilage, reducing food waste and increasing the availability of fresh produce in areas far from the source of production.
The FlavrSavr Tomato, introduced in 1994, is an example of a GM crop developed to resist rotting and to maintain flavor for extended periods. Although this tomato did not remain on the market due to distribution issues, it set the stage for further advancements in biotechnology and the creation of GM crops with traits like disease resistance, improved taste, and moisture retention, which could withstand extreme conditions like drought and salty soil.
Refrigeration and ventilation are traditional methods used to extend the shelf life of fruits by slowing down chemical reactions and removing ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening. However, genetic modification offers a way to enhance these attributes at the source, making the overall supply chain more efficient and less reliant on refrigeration and ventilation during storage and transport.