Nature.com reports that genetically modified (GM) ingredients have been found in a number of products in the UK labeled as either "organic" or "GM-free." The revelation, made in a study scheduled to be published in April by researchers at the University of Glamorgan in Pontypridd, Wales, reportedly "confirms previous tests by national food standards agencies."
The discovery of transgenic soya in these organic or health food products has generated some alarm in GM-conscious Britain, and organizations that certify food to be organic or GM-free are reviewing their procedures.
Nature.com says the problem is only going to get worse. "Almost all the soya from the United States and Argentina, two of the world's major producers, is transgenic. The world's third largest soya producer - Brazil - legalised GM varieties of the crop last September. In many countries, GM-free crops are often mixed with transgenic varieties after harvesting. And batches of soya seed sold as non-GM can contain 1-2% from transgenic varieties."
The discovery of transgenic soya in these organic or health food products has generated some alarm in GM-conscious Britain, and organizations that certify food to be organic or GM-free are reviewing their procedures.
Nature.com says the problem is only going to get worse. "Almost all the soya from the United States and Argentina, two of the world's major producers, is transgenic. The world's third largest soya producer - Brazil - legalised GM varieties of the crop last September. In many countries, GM-free crops are often mixed with transgenic varieties after harvesting. And batches of soya seed sold as non-GM can contain 1-2% from transgenic varieties."
- KC's View:
