Agritope, Inc. (Nasdaq SmallCap: AGTO) today reported that it has completed field trials of
genetically modified cantaloupe in Arizona, Texas, California and Oregon. Agritope conducted the field trials together with its strategic partner for this project, Harris Moran Seed Company, a subsidiary of Vilmorin, Clause & Cie, based in Modesto, California.

The trials showed that, in selected modified varieties, the fruit exhibited improved internal and external firmness with some reduction in fruit molds and soft rots compared to control fruit. There was also a corresponding reduction in ethylene generated by the modified fruits. In addition, the
delayed ripening exhibited by the modified varieties could provide for a more uniform harvest, resulting in fewer pickings and reduced labor costs. The control varieties were identical to the modified varieties except that they did not contain the Agritope technology. The improved traits revealed in the trials should prove to be beneficial for growers, distributors and consumers.

"This year's trials confirmed the results of previous small-scale tests. We are another step closer to being able to offer growers, distributors and consumers a better cantaloupe than is currently available," said Adolph J. Ferro, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer. "Based on these
promising results, we have now selected several varieties to undergo commercial-scale trials next spring and summer."

Ferro said that seed production of the selected varieties is now underway in Chile so that seed will be available in time for planting trial plots in the spring of 1999. Agritope is also in the final stages of preparing submissions to the USDA and FDA that are directed at receiving clearance for distribution of the product in commercial channels. In parallel with the 1999 commercial-scale trials, several new genetically modified melon varieties, including cantaloupe, honeydew and a popular European melon, charentais, will be evaluated in pre-commercial field trials.

Agritope, Inc. is an Oregon-based company that discovers, develops and provides innovative biotechnologies and biotechnology products to the agricultural industry.

Founded in France in 1743, Vilmorin specialized in the worldwide breeding, production and distribution of vegetable and flower seeds to the home garden and professional markets. It is the largest company in the world serving the home garden market and the second largest in the world serving the professional vegetable seed market.

Harris Moran and Agritope have been working together for several years to develop melons with a longer shelf life.

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