Freakonomics Radio 375. The Most Interesting Fruit in the World
Apr 18, 2019
James Dale, a plant scientist from Queensland University of Technology, delves into the fascinating world of bananas, once a luxury good, now a staple in American diets. He discusses the catastrophic threat posed by a virulent fungus that could decimate the Cavendish variety. Dale reveals groundbreaking research in genetic modification, including the use of CRISPR technology to create disease-resistant bananas. He also reflects on the historical journey of bananas and the complexities of public perception regarding GMOs, sparking a conversation on sustainability in agriculture.
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Banana Novelty
- In 1876, a banana plant at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition needed a guard.
- People were fascinated because bananas were exotic and unfamiliar.
Luxury Bananas
- Bananas, though cultivated elsewhere for centuries, were a luxury in 19th-century America.
- Limited availability and high prices made them a rare treat.
Gros Michel's Rise and Fall
- The Gros Michel banana, with its thick skin and large size, was ideal for shipping.
- This made it the dominant variety in the US until Panama disease struck.
