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Research project to evolve Vit A-fortified mustard -- TERI, Monsanto, Michigan varsity ink pact

Our Bureau

NEW DELHI, Dec. 8

EVEN as efforts to bring in technology to genetically produce Vitamin A enriched rice have raised a controversy, a joint venture to produce Vitamin A-fortified rapeseed-mustard has been inked between the Tata Energy Research Institute (TERI), Monsanto an d the Michigan State University (MSU).

The research project to be supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was aimed at enhancing the beta-carotene content in mustard oil, according to a release from TERI.

The agrochemical giant, Monsanto, had developed the technology to increase the levels of beta-carotene in rapeseed (canola). As per the agreement, TERI would adapt and transfer this technology into mustard, a crop species closely related to canola and de velop Vitamin A-fortified mustard.

Naturally occurring mustard has a minimum amount of beta-carotene in itself. But this is inadequate to provide the recommended levels of Vitamin A, whose deficiency causes malnutrition and impaired vision, among the masses in the developing countries.

The role of the MSU would be to oversee the entire project and lead key aspects such as developing dialogue process to engage stakeholders on biotechnology and nutrition.

Rapeseed-mustard was grown in nearly 25 per cent of the area under oilseeds cultivation in India and mustard oil was extensively used as a cooking medium in the country; hence the significance of the research collaboration, the release said.

Once the technology wa adapted and transferred into a identified mustard variety, subsequent evaluations of the effectiveness of the new oil, safety studies for regulatory approval and strategies to introduce the product into diets of affected children w ould be undertaken. The Hyderabad-based, National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), was expected to participate in these efforts.

Monsanto had developed the technology to increase the levels of beta-carotene in rapeseed. As per the agreement, TERI would adapt and transfer this technology into mustard, a crop species closely related to canola