AgBioWorld Members Discuss USDA Statistics, Scandinavian Study on Organic Foods, Threats Against Scientific Researchers and Slate Article
USDA Publishes New Biotech Crops Statistics
Abstract: A member posted a link to a new USDA report on the growth of biotechnology in the United States. The report states that despite the decrease from 2007, planted acreage is at its second highest level since 1946. Corn producers planted 80 percent of their acreage with biotech seed varieties, up 7 percent from 2007 and soybean producers planted 92 percent of their crops with biotech seed varieties.
Source: USDA Economic Research Service
Scandinavian Study Finds Organic Foods Not More Nutritious Than Conventional
Abstract: A study funded by the International Centre for Research in Organic Food Systems (ICROFS) was posted this week. The study compared the nutritional benefits of organic and conventional foodstuffs. The study found that, contrary to popular opinion, organic foodstuffs do not contain more major “trace elements” or nutrients than conventional foodstuffs. Several members posted comments on the origin of the study, while another cautioned others not to confuse organic and sustainable agriculture, as they are quite different.
Source: Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture
Researchers Victims of “Terrorist” Actions
Abstract: A member posted an article by Henry Miller on the threats many University researchers receive due to the nature of their research. Miller provides several examples of researchers who have had people break into their homes, light their cars on fire and vandalize their homes. There are also those who have had their research destroyed, as many activists in Europe often destroy biotech trial fields. Many members expressed their delight in seeing an article that brings this issue to the public.
Source: San Diego Union-Tribune
Slate Publishes Negative Article on Biotechnology
Abstract: Members discuss an article that appeared on Slate.com, “Food Fight - The Four Barriers to the Genetically Modified-Food Revolution- and Why No One Is Talking About Them.” The article criticizes the biotechnology industry, saying that it is not practical to think that genetically modified plants are going to have an immediate affect on a global food crisis. The article specifically criticizes the types of crops being targeted, yield improvement, accessibility to third world countries and the industry’s response to consumer concerns. Many members commented negatively about the piece with a couple of them submitting comments to Slate.
