Controversy Over GM Mustard Continues After New Govt Report
GM mustard isn’t harmful to health, the government says, but activists are concerned about introducing the crop.
This week the Environment Ministry released a report finding that genetically-modified mustard is not harmful to health.
The report, submitted by a sub-committee of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee, was largely criticised by anti-GMO activists, who claim data in favour of GM mustard is skewed. Though research suggests genetically modified mustard yields could be 30 percent higher than native species, activists say GM seeds were only compared to low-yield varieties.
Activists also say GM seeds are much more expensive and force farmers to become reliant on large corporations.
The government will receive public commentary on GM mustard until 5 October.
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