News Plants

Big genetics study blazes path for bringing back tomato flavor

Genetics of heirloom vs. mass-market varieties suggests new targets for breeders

various tomatoes

UNITED NATIONS OF TOMATO  Studying the genetics of flavor in heirloom tomatoes (shown) suggests ways to breed more taste into supermarket varieties, a new study finds.

H. Klee/University of Florida

By Susan Milius

- More than 2 years ago

An analysis of nearly 400 kinds of tomatoes suggests which flavor compounds could bring heirloom deliciousness back to varieties that were bred for toughness over taste.