Why modern broccoli looks different from old kinds
From landrace to modern hybrid broccoli: the genomic and morphological domestication syndrome within a diverse B. oleracea collection.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Modern broccoli has a stronger AT nucleotide bias than landraces — the same DNA pattern seen in corn and soybeans.
People assume broccoli is ‘natural’ or ‘unchanged,’ but its DNA is now shaped like industrial crops — a sign of deep, invisible domestication.
Practical Takeaways
Buy sprouting broccoli or purple cauliflower — they’re genetic reservoirs that can help future-proof your meals and support biodiversity.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Modern broccoli has a stronger AT nucleotide bias than landraces — the same DNA pattern seen in corn and soybeans.
People assume broccoli is ‘natural’ or ‘unchanged,’ but its DNA is now shaped like industrial crops — a sign of deep, invisible domestication.
Practical Takeaways
Buy sprouting broccoli or purple cauliflower — they’re genetic reservoirs that can help future-proof your meals and support biodiversity.
Publication
Journal
Horticulture research
Year
2020
Authors
Zachary Stansell, T. Björkman
Related Content
Claims (10)
Consumption of modern, selectively bred fruits and vegetables is associated with improved health outcomes in human populations.
Two very old broccoli varieties from the 1800s and 1950s are the genetic ancestors of almost all modern broccoli hybrids sold today.
Today’s broccoli heads are much tighter and more uniform in shape than older varieties, which makes them look better and sell better in stores.
Scientists found 53 spots in the broccoli genome where genetic variation has been wiped out — likely because breeders picked plants with certain traits so often that other versions disappeared.
Sprouting broccoli has way more unique genetic variants than store-bought broccoli, making it a treasure trove for breeders trying to add new traits.