[maxerickson]

Margarine has a more interesting history than that:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margarine#History

It was mostly about making a fat spread that was cheaper than butter. Relatively recent marketing probably made lots of health claims.

I suppose that makes the development a closer parallel with golden rice (or bananas), but I think you are underestimating the understanding that the developers of these organisms have.

[aestra]

Interestingly enough butter consumption has skyrocketed and has surpassed margarine consumption for the first time since the 50s. The hype has worn off, the health benefits haven't been proven, and margarine has become the poster child for "fake" foods.

http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2014-01-30/unilever-add...

It helps that butter tastes so much better. I grew up on margarine and butter was like a forbidden fruit to my mom because it was "so bad for you." I grew up thinking butter was death in stick form. I always bought margarine as an adult because you do what your parents did unless you have a reason not to. Well, at some point a few years ago I questioned it and switched over to butter. Guess who also switched to butter recently after decrying it my whole life? My mom.

[vidarh]

The spreads you find in shops in most countries today bear little to no resemblance to margarine. Hence the "modern" health claims.