Researchers from Germany are working to engineer the dandelion’s genetic material. The researchers are with the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology. Dirk Pruefer of the Institute says the goal is to produce large amounts of latex that can be used in industry. He said one of the most difficult parts of dandelion research was to produce plants that will be economical.
“And that is why we’re working since years on the breeding program to develop new traits in the plants, stabilized traits – for example, stable rubber content.”
The genetically-engineered dandelion is already producing half a ton of rubber per hectare. But Dirk Pruefer says the scientists’ goal is about two times as much. They would also like to grow taller plants with upright leaves. Machine harvesting works better with such leaves.