GDC: Mexicans protest GMO corn from US
Ronald Nigh (danamex@mail.internet.com.mx)
Tue, 06 Jul 1999 18:24:20 -0500
>GREENPEACE MEXICO DELIVERS GMO CORN SEED TO HEALTH DEPARTMENT, DEMANDS
IMPORT BAN.
>
>Nearly 100 kg of genetically modified corn seed, purchased near Mexico
City was turned over to the Mexican health authorities as proof that
genetically altered corn is imported to the country mixed with regular
grain. Trasngenic grain is sent to Mexico without any labels or prior
notification, the activists claimed.
>
>Eight members of Greenpeace, as well as the corn and a written petition
requesting an import ban on transgenic foods and seeds, were received by
local health officials who promised to refer the matter to the federal
Minister of Health. Trasngenic corn has not been authorized by the
Mexican government, neither as food nor seed.
>
> Officials have stated that transgenic corn seed will not be permitted in
Mexico since the country is a center of corn domestication, harboring
dozens of traditional varieties and wild relatives. The precaution is
aimed at preventing genetic contamination of these valuable crop genetic
resources.
>
>Greenpeace campaign coordinator Liza Covantes expressed concern about the
unknown health effects of these foods. She cited the example of a GM
variety of corn known as "Event 176" that utilizes genes for resistance to
the antibiotic ampicillin, citing research from the Pasteur Institute in
France. In studies commissioned by Greenpeace, samples of corn imported to
Mexico were found to have both Event 176 and Bt transgenic varieties.
>
>The Mexican health authorities stated that they shared Greenpeace's
concerns and assured that they are currently elaborating regulations to
complement existing laws to allow greater control of transgenic foods.
>
>Sources: La Jornada, "Frenar importaciones de maíz transgénico, pide
Greenpeace" 2/07/1999. El Universal "Entregan a la SSA evidencias de maíz
transgénico" 2/07/1999.
>
>
>
Ronald Nigh
Dana, A.C.
Mexico, D.F. & San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapas
Tel. y FAX 525-666-73-66 (DF)
529-678-72-15 (Chiapas)
danamex@mail.internet.com.mx
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