Amflora

Amflora was a genetically modified (GM) potato, developed by BASF Plant Science, primarily for industrial use. It was modified to produce almost pure amylopectin starch, a form of starch that is particularly useful in the production of adhesives, paper, and textiles. Traditional potatoes produce a mixture of amylose and amylopectin, requiring a chemical separation process to isolate the desired amylopectin. Amflora aimed to eliminate the need for this separation, making the process more efficient and cost-effective.

The genetic modification involved silencing the gene responsible for amylose production. This resulted in tubers containing a very high percentage of amylopectin.

Amflora potatoes were approved for cultivation in the European Union in 2010. However, due to public opposition and market conditions, BASF withdrew the product from the European market in 2012. Cultivation permits were subsequently allowed to expire.

Concerns surrounding Amflora mainly revolved around the potential for unintended consequences related to the genetic modification, including potential impacts on human health and the environment. These concerns, along with labeling requirements for GM products, contributed to the market challenges faced by Amflora.