September 21/Liverpool, England/Daily Post -- A protein-packed "superspud" has been developed by genetic scientists who believe it could combat malnutrition.
The potato was created by boosting seed protein production by the gene AmA1 (amaranth albumin 1). Laboratory tests showed it contained up to 60% more protein than ordinary nonmodified potatoes. Concentrations of several amino acids -- protein building blocks that are essential to health -- were also increased significantly. The research was reported in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.