Grain traders reject comingled canola

Co-operative Bulk Handlers (CBH) and Elders will buy only GM-free canola this year. Under pressure, GrainCorp says GM-free farmers will not be forced to pay for segregation, this season at least.

“GrainCorp’s plan to comingle GM and GM-free canola at all their East Coast silos was derailed by buyer resistance for now,” says Gene Ethics Director Bob Phelps.

“Grain buyers told a VFF meeting in Nhill that they would reject canola from comingled sites so just five GrainCorp sites will accept GM this year.

“GM-free growers still can avoid deliberate GM dumping and contamination for now, but this will only last if GM-free growers and buyers get organised.

“West Australia’s largest grain trader (CBH) says ‘GM canola not accepted’ in its daily purchasing contracts for SA, Victoria and NSW (see attached).

And Elders’ head of trading Michael Hein confirms they will not buy anything from comingled canola depots because of the risk of GM contamination in their canola exports to Europe that must be GM-free: Here

Mr Hein says that non-GM growers should avoid delivering to comingled silos if they want to sell their oilseed to Elders.

“The Graincorp backdown shows the power of traders, processors and ultimately shoppers to dictate what products will be supplied but only when their preferences have some clout.

“North American experience shows the GM giants will stop at nothing to ensure their products soon dominate the market,” Mr Phelps concludes.

Graincorp GM Receival Sites 2009

Geelong Port Terminal
McLeod St North Geelong 3215
38.112701, 144.358635

Lubeck Vic 3381
36.748393, 142.553229

Lillimur Vic 3420
36.361245, 141.117251

Natimuk Vic 3409
36.741816,141.941948

Warracknabeal Vic 3393
36.253202, 142.402596
Gene Ethics