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Newly-developed edible cotton seeds are packed with protein – not poison

By Ben Coxworth
February 10, 2020
Newly-developed edible cotton seeds are packed with protein – not poison
A handful of the TAM66274 seeds – safe for human consumption
A handful of the TAM66274 seeds – safe for human consumption
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A handful of the TAM66274 seeds – safe for human consumption
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A handful of the TAM66274 seeds – safe for human consumption
Regular cotton seeds (left), as compared to the new variety
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Regular cotton seeds (left), as compared to the new variety

Cotton is a widely-grown crop and its seeds are full of protein, so you might think they'd be a great source of food. Unfortunately, though, they're toxic to humans. That said, such is not the case with a newly-developed variety of the plant.

Ordinarily, cotton plants (including the seeds) contain a toxic organic compound known as gossypol, which helps to protect the plant against insects and viruses. Gossypol is also toxic to human red blood cells, causing anemia and even death in people who consume it.

As a result, although the seeds can be used in cattle feed and as a source of cottonseed oil, their usefulness is limited.

Regular cotton seeds (left), as compared to the new variety
Regular cotton seeds (left), as compared to the new variety

Led by Prof. Keerti Rathore, a team at Texas A&M University set about addressing this problem by genetically engineering a variety of cotton called TAM66274. It lacks gossypol in its seeds, making them safe to eat. The compound is still present in the rest of the plant, though, to maintain protection against pests and diseases. Additionally, the plant's ability to produce cotton fiber is unaffected.

It is now hoped that TAM66274 could not only provide a cheap and plentiful source of protein to people around the world, but that it may also serve as an extra source of income to farmers – but without the need for additional land, water or fertilizer.

Source: Sustainable, Secure Food

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ScienceCottonAgricultureProteinTexas A&M UniverstyFoodNew Atlas Audio
3 comments
Ben Coxworth
Ben Coxworth
Based out of Edmonton, Canada, Ben Coxworth has been writing for New Atlas since 2009 and is presently Managing Editor for North America. An experienced freelance writer, he previously obtained an English BA from the University of Saskatchewan, then spent over 20 years working in various markets as a television reporter, producer and news videographer. Ben is particularly interested in scientific innovation, human-powered transportation, and the marine environment.

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3 comments
Ichabod Ebenezer
Sounds fantastic. Now, how does it taste?
Rohit
Yes, cotton seeds have been found to be a rich source of protein, making them a potential new food source for humans. Traditionally, cotton seeds were considered waste products of the cotton industry and were often discarded or used as animal feed. However, recent research has shown that the seeds contain high levels of protein and oil, making them suitable for human consumption.

Edible cotton seeds are also a good source of essential amino acids, fiber, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. They have a nutty flavor and can be roasted, ground into flour, or added to various dishes for a protein boost.

The development of edible cotton seeds has the potential to provide a new food source for the growing global population, as well as helping to reduce food waste in the cotton industry. However, further research and development is needed to ensure that the seeds are safe and nutritionally balanced for human consumption
FlameOysters
Who cares if the Cottonseed doesn't have Gossypol! Cottonseed is a mallow, therefore, Gossypol isn't the only concern. Cyclopropene fatty acids most commonly found in Sterculia are also found in lower amounts in various Mallows including Cottonseed. Why do we assume we can eat the seeds even if it doesn't have the prime toxic agent?