Doctor Sylvain Charlebois says the Arctic apple is intrinsically linked to the GMO debate.
Charlebois is a University of Guelph professor and a Troy Media columnist.
The Arctic apple is an apple genetically modified so it doesn't brown.
There are many genetically engineered foods currently sold in Canada, including papayas, tomatoes and corn.
But Charlebois says the Arctic apple will be a very visible example of genetically-modified food available to consumers.
It's benefits could include less food waste because the apple could look more appealing for longer periods of time.
However, the University of Guelph professor says there's a potential risk that consumers who are categorically opposed to genetic engineering will avoid all apples.
Charlebois says the Arctic apple will be an interesting market study once it hits store shelves sometime in 2017.
The Canadian-designed apple was recently approved for sale by both Health Canada and the USDA.
