This week’s Talking Biotech features discussion of Huanglongbing (HLB) also known as Citrus Greening Disease.  The disease is devastating Florida citrus, and is causing a massive hardship on the State’s iconic industries.  We are joined by Ricke Kress from Southern Gardens Citrus, one of the largest producers and processors.  Southern Gardens has experienced massive losses from citrus greening, losing over 800,000 trees.  They are now in the process of deregulating the first genetically engineered citrus variety.  A gene from spinach moved to citrus trees confers tolerance to this disease, and the plants are asymptomatic and productive so far.  This is another excellent example of how these technologies, developed by small companies or universities, can solve issues that help ensure future delivery of fresh, healthy fruit.

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The Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.