GMO Food for Thought

New York Times Articles on Biotechnology and Organics Gain Attention Online

Abstract: The New York Times published an article of particular interest to AgBioWorld Members titled “In Lean Times, Biotech Grains Are Less Taboo.” The article has been reposted by numerous bloggers around the Web and has been a hot topic of conversation. A few days earlier the NYT published an article on the rising cost of organic food. This article was discussed broadly within the group.

Sources: “In Lean Times, Biotech Grains Are Less Taboo”
“Sticker Shock in the Organic Aisles”

Swiss “Dignity” Law Discussed

Abstract: Nature recently published an article on a “dignity” law in Switzerland. The law requires the federal government's ethics committee on non-human biotechnology to map out guidelines to help granting agencies decide which research applications deeply offend the dignity of plants. If it does not pass, the research will become “unfundable.” According to the article,

“All plant biotechnology grant applications must now include a paragraph explaining the extent to which plant dignity is considered. ‘But scientists don't know what it means,’ says Beat Keller of the Institute of Plant Biology at the University of Zurich.”

Members had a lot to say about this law, mostly criticizing the “absurdity” of it. A member also noted that the concept originated in the Netherlands, though their version is a little different. Another member posted a link to a workshop being held at the World Congress on the Future of Food and Agriculture Conference in Bonn, Germany, May 12 – 16, 2008.

Sources: Nature
“The Dignity of Living Beings” brochure produced by Switzerland (PDF)
“Rediscover the Plant: A scientific and ethical discourse” Workshop

GM Canola Seeds Sell Out in Australia

Abstract: A member posted a news article reporting that genetically modified canola appears to be a success in parts of Australia, as all available GM canola seed have sold out for autumn planting in New South Wales. One member cautioned that victory can not be declared yet, as there are some farmers that are threatening to sue of contamination occurred. Another member responded, saying that the chances of contamination in Australia are lower than that in other countries due to the location of the farmers. Also, since the farms are closer to the coasts, activists that are behind the farmers threats are less likely to check farms that are hours away from big cities.

Source: ABC Central West (AU)