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JPIC Corner....
UPDATE ON NO-GMO CAMPAIGN
There is good news and bad news on the campaign against the development of GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) as food.
In July, 1999 the Philippine Government through the National Committee on Biotech Safety approved the field-testing of genetically modified corn in the country. They did this while refusing to entertain the 35 objections of the lone community representative Roberto Versola. Testing is expected to start in Lagao, General Santos City. Earlier, the NO GMO campaign group (of which the JPIC is a member) succeeded in convincing the municipal government of Bai, Laguna, to ban the proposed field-tests within the municipality.
The Government has allocated P800 million for the development of the biotech industry.On October 4, the Monsanto Corporation (which is the largest promoter of GMO technology) announced that it 'would not commercialize the controversial gene technology which sterilizes seeds'. This technology, popularly known as the 'terminator seed' is genetically modified so that the seeds do not germinate. This means that farmers have to buy new seeds every year from the seed company.
The decision was a response to an outcry, mostly from Europe, about the new technology. Those opposed claims that it gave a virtual monopoly of control over food to the seed companies, and that it victimized farmers, particularly in the Third World. Terminator seeds are only one aspect of the GMO issue. The company will continue with its program to develop GM food.
In August, 1998, a scientist in Aberdeen revealed that GMO potatoes fed to rats had weakened their immune system, and damaged their internal organs. He was immediately attacked by the scientific community and the Government. The Rowett lnstitute, at which he was employed, suspended him and later retired the 68 year Dr. Pusztai. Last week the scientist was vindicated when it was revealed that the prestigious medical journal, The Lancet, had decided to publish his findings.
A U.S. Gallop Poll on people's perception on food safety shed some light on the gap between thinking in Europe and that country. The poll showed that 80% feel confident on the safety of food available in the supermarkets; 27% believed that GM food posed a serious health risk; 53% believed that it does not, and 20% are unsure. Overall 51% are in favour of developing genetically modified food; 41% are opposed. In terms of knowledge about GMO's, 10% said they knew a 'great deal'; 40% had 'some knowledge' and 50% knew 'little to nothing'.
Since 1994, the US has gone full swing into the development of GMO crops. Over 50% of soya beans are genetically modified. The biotech companies have refused to label the GMO products and have mixed them with naturally produced goods. This has led to a massive reaction from consumers in Europe
who have refused to buy the products. The farmers have found themselves practically quarantined and are furious with the Government and the seed companies. To make matters worse, the leading bank in Germany last week advised its customers to avoid 'biotech' stocks as a dangerous investment.