Scientists at the John Innes Center, in the United Kingdom, have transferred two genes from a plant known as snapdragon to a tomato to increase its content of antioxidants (anthocyanins) . The result is a deep purple fruit that could become the panacea for healthy foods , since according to the researchers the new tomato protects against certain cancers, in addition to preventing cardiovascular diseases and degenerative diseases associated with age . What is more, thanks to its very high antioxidant content, its consumption has anti-inflammatory properties, promotes visual acuity and slows down obesity and diabetes .
To test these beneficial effects, the researchers analyzed how the mice responded when they added powdered purple tomatoes to their diet. The results showed that the animals experienced a very significant increase in their life expectancy .
Biologist Cathie Martin, co-author of the study just published in the journal Nature biotechnology , assures that “most people do not consume 5 pieces of fruit and vegetables a day, but they could get more benefits from a single piece if we incorporate more bioactive components ” .
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