Bob Phelps Executive Director Gene Ethics: http://www.geneethics.org
BULK grain handler GrainCorp will mix Genetically Manipulated (GM) and non-GM canola varieties and says: “We no longer segregate GM to everything else.” After just one season, the pretense that GM and non-GM canola can and will be segregated has ended. Monsanto’s RoundUp tolerant GM canola will be co-mingled with all other canola varieties, paving the way for a complete GM takeover.
GM-free Tasmania and South Australia could supply this market. The WA, Vic and NSW governments should also again declare their states GM-free Zones. Give shoppers what they want, labeled!
Non-GM canola growers and the 90% of shoppers who want GM-free will have to pay the extra costs that result from GM canola being grown. For example, GrainCorp still offers to keep some non-GM canola separate but this will: “attract an additional fee,” and the supply won’t last.
Other businesses should take the GM-free canola market away from GrainCorp. It is vital to meet the strong demand from committed GM-free buyers, including most Australian food processors, supermarkets, and Asian and European shoppers.
Yours sincerely,
Level 2, 60 Leicester St, Carlton 3053 Australia
