McDonald's won't buy genetically modified potato

BOISE, ID -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved Idaho-based J.R. Simplot Co.'s new genetically modified potato. But one of the company's oldest business partners - McDonald's - hasn't.

The Idaho Statesman reports that the fast-food giant says it doesn't use genetically modified potatoes and has no plans to change that policy.

The USDA this month gave Boise-based J.R. Simplot Co. permission to begin commercial planting of its new spud, called the "Innate" potato. The company altered the potato's DNA so it produces less acrylamide, which is suspected to be a human carcinogen. Potatoes naturally produce the chemical when they're cooked at high temperatures.

The potato is also engineered to resist bruising.

Simplot is a major supplier of french fries, hash browns and other potato products for restaurant chains like McDonald's.