Eight scientists call for further studies on effects of genetically modified food

The case for a ban on production of genetically modified crops in Ireland has been strengthened by a call from a group of international scientists for greater independent evaluation of their effects, according to the environmental group, Genetic Concern. The stance of eight experts on genetics and bio-safety, who issued a joint statement at a UN conference in Montreal, Canada, has prompted Genetic Concern to renew its call on Fianna Fail to honour its pre-election promise to introduce a ban.

"This is an important endorsement of our stance. We feel the case for a Government ban is now undeniable and the Fianna Fail commitment must be honoured," said a spokesman, Mr Quentin Gargan.

The scientists include the British-based geneticist, Dr Ricarda Steinbrecher, who has repeatedly cautioned against early introduction of genetically modified products into the food chain, and Dr Beatrix Tappeser, head of the Department of Risk Assessment in Genetic Engineering at Freiburg Institute of Applied Ecology, Germany.

They called this week on governments and the EU to revoke market approval of genetic modified crops on the basis of evidence that they may lead to increased plant hormone and altered fat levels with potential impacts on humans.

They also cited what they considered to be shortcomings in the evaluation of genetically modified crops, notably soya beans produced by Monsanto which are modified to be resistant to its herbicide, Roundup (glyphosate).

Monsanto has said its research shows no substantial difference in genetically modified soya and its unmodified version and no adverse health consequences - a view endorsed by the US Food and Drug Administration.

The scientists attending a meeting on bio-safety under the terms of the UN convention of biological diversity said, nonetheless, that there was a need for further, independent scientific investigation. Until these investigations were completed, Roundup Ready soya beans should not be allowed to enter the food chain, they said.

The Green Party TD, Mr John Gormley, said yesterday he had tabled a Dail question seeking to establish why the election promise was not being honoured.

"It will go down as another U-turn."

Meanwhile, the food writer, Mr John McKenna, has told the annual meeting of the Irish Association of Health Stores that the genetically modified organism (GMO) controversy in Ireland of late showed that "mainstream food culture has taken a wholly different path from a holistic and humane approach to food".

"Every survey or opinion poll has shown that consumers do not want GMOs in their food. There is no demand from any quarter other than from the producers of GMO food. Public concern has been ignored. The Government acquiesced by allowing a multinational company, Monsanto, to begin testing and growing GMO sugar beet in Carlow."