A US author and GM expert - Jeffrey Smith – is visiting the NSW Parliament today to outlines 65 possible risks to human and animal health posed by genetically modified organisms.
Mr Smith’s warnings are based on scientific studies and medical research from around the world and will be delivered ahead of an expected announcement next week on the status of NSW’s GM moratorium.
“We have an expert warning us today of danger to human health in the event that GM food crops are cleared for introduction in NSW next week,” said Upper House Greens MP Ian Cohen.
“The health impacts of GM are assessed by the Federal Gene Technology Regulator, but unfortunately the Federal Government is prioritising GM industry access to Australia over the health of our community.
“Listening to Ian Macdonald speak in Parliament you'd think there was no opposition to GM but you would be wrong - the nation's largest Australian-owned food company Goodman Fielder, lamb export giant Tatiara Meats, and Coles Supermarkets are calling on state governments to save our food from genetic engineering.
“Coles supermarkets said this week, 'Coles listens to our customers and over 90% do not want GE ingredients in their food and Coles whole private label range of 'Smart Buy', 'You'll Love Coles' and 'Coles Finest' exclude all GM ingredients in response to customer concerns.'
“Jeffrey Smith argues that the rush to embrace GM foods has exposed everyone to serious health risks and that there has been very little independent testing on the possible impact on human health from eating GM food.
“State governments in Western Australia and Tasmania are taking concerns about GM seriously and are looking to extend their GM moratoria, NSW should do the same.
"Australia is in the very fortunate position of being free of GM food crops, with a reputation for clean green food produce – let's keep it that way,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Ian Cohen: 0409 989 466
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