China pushes consumption of genetically-modified rice

BEIJING – China’s science website scipark.net has invited people across China to taste genetically modified (GM) rice at restaurants in 23 cities in an attempt to further promote GM foods to the general public.

Scipark.net editor-in-chief Wu Xingchuan said: “We are trying to get a message across to those who still doubt the safety of GM products. We believe GM rice is safe, and we are more than willing to eat it.”

The Government appears to be on the same side as Wu and other pro-GM advocates: A policy document issued by the Central Committee in January says China will “strengthen research and manage the safety of GM foods”.

The rice offered at the 23 restaurants is a genetically-modified Bt 63 strain developed by researchers at Huazhong Agricultural University in Wuhan, Hebei province.  The name indicates that Bacillus thuringiensis – which produces a natural pesticide that protects the plant – is embedded in the plant’s genetic makeup.

Bt 63 rice, together with another strain, Huahui 1, received safety certification in January for production for another four years, after the initial certificates expired in November. However, another three certificates are required before the strains are cleared for commercial cultivation, highlighting China’s cautious attitude towards GM food. www.webershandwick.cn (ATI).