| Proposed Biotech Regs Sow Discontent |
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| Written by Kiki Hubbard | |
| Monday, 24 November 2008 | |
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Today is the deadline for submitting comments to USDA regarding its oversight of genetically engineered plants and other organisms. While USDA says the proposed rules will establish safeguards for the introduction of organisms derived from biotechnology while reducing "regulatory burdens," consumer groups are rallying their membership base to sign petitions in support of stronger regulations. Two of the most problematic issues include: 1. Contamination. The rules include language that would formalize a policy to basically overlook low levels of contamination by unauthorized transgenic crops. That is, when crops not approved for commercial planting -- those still in the experimental stage -- contaminate food crops, the companies responsible for these test plots would not be held liable. These contamination events wouldn't lead to remedial action. What's a farmer's recourse, then, if he or she loses an important market due to contamination? Equally concerning, USDA would still allow the outdoor planting of experimental pharmaceutical crops, such as food crops engineered to produce industrial chemicals and drugs. 2. Preemption. As written, the rules would preempt "all state and local laws or regulations that are inconsistent [with USDA rules]." So, local initiatives, including Hawaii's Big Island ban on transgenic coffee and taro, GMO-free counties, and even state laws that aim to shift liability away from the farmer, could all potentially be impacted by the new rule. This is the first major revision to biotechnology regulations since they were implemented in the late 1980s. In 2005, the USDA's own Inspector General found that the agency's regulations, policies, and procedures do not go far enough to ensure the safe introduction of agricultural biotechnology. With new studies showing potential health problems and evidence of contamination, the agency must provide strict measures that protect consumers, the environment, and conventional and organic marketplaces, as well as hold biotech firms accountable for any economic and environmental implications of their technology. Source: Reuters
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It's true what our moms said...we are what we eat. In fact, it's truer than they thought. What I eat doesn't just affect me anymore, it affects all of us.
Unfortunately, the story of food can sometimes be complicated. But envirovores help each other out...which is why this blog will be bringing you news, tips, and information about food and the environment every step of the way.
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