As a result of a 25-year-long research project, scientists at Texas A&M University have genetically modified cotton so that it can be used as food. The end product tastes somewhat like chickpeas and has been recognized by FDA as being allowed as food for people and all types of animals. A commercially viable food product is projected to be manufactured within the next five years.
According to Andy Coyne, food correspondent at GlobalData, “The idea that a crop that has never been part of the human food chain and which can be grown widely can now be seen as a sustainable and protein-rich food source has incredible implications in a world where malnutrition is still rife.”