Which one of the following statements is not correct about Flavr Savr tomatoes ?

The Flavr Savr tomato, developed by Calgene and approved by the FDA in 1994, was the first genetically engineered food product marketed [t2][t7]. It was created using antisense technology to inhibit the enzyme polygalacturonase, which is responsible for breaking down pectin and causing fruit softening [t1][t4]. This modification significantly slowed the ripening and softening process [t1][t6]. Consequently, a key feature of the Flavr Savr was that the fruit could be left on the plant (vine-ripened) for a longer period to develop fuller flavor while remaining firm enough for transport [t2][t3][t5]. Therefore, the statement that the fruit cannot be left on the plant for a long period is incorrect. While it aimed for better flavor and longer shelf life, it faced commercial challenges including lower-than-expected yields and high production costs [t2][t4].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.genome.gov/25520336/online-education-kit-1994-flavr-savr-tomato