Agrifood Awareness Australia Limited (AFAA) has recently released an updated version of its very popular booklet, Gene Technology in Australia – Fact not Fiction.
The new edition of the booklet contains a wide range of information from basic detail on the science of gene technology, to the laws and guidelines surrounding research, and opinions on the technology from government, science and farming industries.
Also included in the booklet is information on:
1. Gene technology around the world;
2. Impacts and uses of the technology;
3. Gene technology in Australia;
4. The research process of gene technology; and
5. Labelling of genetically modified foods
In addition to the new booklet, AFAA has completely updated and redesigned its fact sheets. Copies of the booklet and fact sheets can be downloaded or requested from AFAA’s website: www.afaa.com.au.
Jennifer Marohasy BSc PhD is a critical thinker with expertise in the scientific method.
Jen wouldn’t you think there would be a lot more interest in education about potential technologies that could alleviate to some degree the effects of dangerous food hyperinflation? Hmmm … maybe we have stimulated too many people to devote their collective thoughts to whether or not the climate is changing and other far more important issues. What’s food got to do with climate anyway?
So weather patterns for crops are certainly affecting output. Fertilizer prices are continuing to hyperinflate in cost. Herbicides and pesticide prices next year will surprise all (to the upside).
Yet we have the gall to restrict plant breeders abilities to achieve gains that could alleviate the effects of all these factors on farm productivity in terms of volumes (forget about quality – the good old days of being able to be fussy are coming to an end!). And how many critics of technologies such as transgenics have actually tried their hand at food production? Eating is the easy bit …
Barley prices hit another record high today – up 10% in a day! Feed barley now fetching $380/t. Previous yearly high was $255/t last year.
I don’t think the booklet can give a balanced view, as Monsanto sponsors the AFAA.
Regarding price of agricultural commodities – well, soy beans in the USA are mostly GM, yet the price has risen 50% in a year. How can GM technology help meet the rising demand? It hasn’t so far.
I would have thought food price inflation has more to do with unsustainable agricultural practices (reliance on fossil fuel and constant export of soil nutrients) and too many people in the world.
In Australia, GM food technology is focussed mainly on Canola. People don’t eat Canola. I certainly never use Canola oil as I don’t like it. I am as much a critic of GM technology as a supporter. I also produce the bulk of my own food needs in my garden, so I am aware of the constant challenges of pests and diseases. Perhaps it’s time for people to pay the real cost of food.