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While traditionalists argue that all fruits and vegetables are strictly hybrids, the public generally reacts positively to new varieties of anything edible. A hybrid fruit or vegetable may occasionally be the result of natural selection, but it is frequently the result of human cross-pollination of two or more fruits or vegetables. Contrary to hybrids, which are genetically engineered in a lab, GMOs are living things that have had their genes changed. Contrary to genetically modified organisms (GMOs), hybrid fruits and vegetables are produced by marrying two types or cultivars of the same species, or between different species within the same genus. Even though most of the hybrids you see were created by artificial cross-pollination, this occurrence occurs regularly in the wild. This is essentially how new plant species develop throughout time. Thank the wind, seeds, pollen, bees, and all living things.
Some popular hybrids are listed below:
Broccoflower
What is It: a hybrid kind of broccoli and cauliflower
This green vegetable has a cactus-like appearance and tastes precisely as you would expect. It can be prepared the same way as its parents—steamed, boiled, sautéed, or even eaten raw—but because of its unusual colour, it is more expensive. It is a common ingredient to add to curries and soups, and many have utilised its eye-catching colour to lure youngsters who are reluctant to eat vegetables.
Broccolini
What is it: a cross between broccoli and kai lan (Chinese kale)
Due to the similarities between its parent veggies, this hybrid, which has been granted trademark status in various regions of the world, is more mellow. It has a long, thin stalk and tiny florets, and many gourmands adore its sweet flavour. For a simple side meal, the veggie is easily sautéed with lemon and garlic.
Kalette
What is it: A Brussels sprout and kale plant
When you thought kale couldn't possibly get much trendier, it adopts what is perhaps the least popular vegetable and turns it into a fad. Kalettes, a gentler, sweeter substitute for the bitter Christmas Brussels sprout, were introduced to the global food market in 2014. The vegetables can be grilled, sautéed, steamed, or even consumed raw.
Pomato
What is it: The confused offspring of the tomato and the potato
Due of the highly distinct qualities of its parents—one is a plant and the other is a fruit—the pomato won't be found in the natural environment. However, German researchers were able to mix the two in the 1990s, and their product is now sold in the UK by the gardening supply company Thompson & Morgan.
Pineberry
What is it: The pineberry, a particular variety of strawberry with a taste of pineapple, is not exactly a hybrid
It's an ancient fruit from South America. According to Waitrose (a brand of British supermarkets), Dutch farmers started commercially growing the fruit about ten years ago and saved it from extinction. In 2011, the grocery store began selling adorable white fruit.
