News

New strain of cotton moves toward commercialization

The USDA is allowing a new strain of cotton that’s edible to move toward commercialization. Texas A&M AgriLife researcher, Dr. Keerti Rathore, spent 23 years studying cotton and found a way to remove the natural toxin gossypol from cottonseeds, which made them inedible to people and most animals. The new seed lacks a significant amount of the toxin in the seeds, but the plant still produces gossypol to protect it from pests.

Texas A & M says the breakthrough will allow farmers to grow cotton for not just fiber, but feed and food since the new seeds can be ground into flour and made into a spread like peanut butter. It can also be fed as a protein source for animals.

The lead researcher says the product will improve the income of growers without additional effort or input and improve sustainability by providing diverse uses for one crop.

The development will be available globally but will help cotton-producing countries facing malnutrition the most.

Commercialization of the new cotton seed can begin after approval from the FDA which is expected in the coming months.