USDA Says GM Wheat Was Isolated Case

Jun 19, 2013

The USDA says the discovery of genetically modified wheat in an Oregon field was an isolated incident.

Investigators say they have found no indication of the presence of the unapproved Roundup Ready wheat variety in commerce. All samples of wheat seed from the producer and seed supplier have tested negative. Investigators are continuing to conduct interviews with approximately 200 area growers.

The department has also validated a method for detecting the variety, and this test has been provided to foreign wheat buyers.

Japan, Korea and Taiwan have restricted imports of US white wheat as a result of the discovery.

Source: PortageOnline

Video: Finding a Balance of Innovation and Regulation - Dr. Peter Facchini

Regulations help markets and industry exist on level playing fields, keeping consumers safe and innovation from going too far. However, incredibly strict regulations can stunt innovation and cause entire industries to wither away. Dr. Peter James Facchini brings his perspective on how existing regulations have slowed the advancement of medical developments within Canada. Given the international concern of opium poppy’s illicit potential, Health Canada must abide by this global policy. But with modern technology pushing the development of many pharmaceuticals to being grown via fermentation, is it time to reconsider the rules?

Dr. Peter James Facchini leads research into the metabolic biochemistry in opium poppy at the University of Calgary. For more than 30 years, his work has contributed to the increased availability of benzylisoquinoline alkaloid biosynthetic genes to assist in the creation of morphine for pharmaceutical use. Dr. Facchini completed his B.Sc. and Ph.D. in Biological Sciences at the University of Toronto before completing Postdoctoral Fellowships in Biochemistry at the University of Kentucky in 1992 & Université de Montréal in 1995.