Research in Italy has successfully engineered seedless eggplants using genetic modification, producing 30-35% more fruit than conventional varieties. The genetically modified eggplants have improved productivity, reduced cultivation costs, and can thrive in cooler conditions.
Borlaug's work in Mexico led to the development of high-yield, low-pesticide wheat, increasing crop production by 7000% in just a few decades. His efforts have since expanded to sub-Saharan Africa and India, helping small-scale farmers adopt improved agricultural techniques
University of Florida scientists are helping North Florida growers produce a crop in November by tricking strawberry plants into acting like spring has arrived. The process involves putting young strawberry plants in refrigerated trailers for about two weeks, making them think they've been through the required winter chilling period.
A new study suggests that cleaning up air pollution in China could increase crop production by up to one-third. Heavy regional haze scatters and absorbs solar radiation, reducing plant growth and food production. Researchers estimate that China loses around 10-30% of its crop production to haze.
Pharming Healthcare Inc. plans to invest $37 million in Virginia to produce Human Factor VIII and Fibrinogen in the milk of transgenic animals, treating patients with hemophilia and controlling bleeding in surgery and trauma. The company's production techniques are partially based on technologies developed at Virginia Tech.