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GMO rice in the Philippines

Lawmakers approved GMO rice in the Philippines last Thursday. This golden variety has been genetically modified, so it has a very high contribution of beta carotene. This carotenoid is transformed into Vitamin A, fundamental for sight, in the human body.

According to the Philippine authorities, this approval will be a breakthrough. For the farmer it does not represent any change in the crop. The genetically modified variety does not need a different management or a higher supply of nutrients to the plant. For the population without resources it will represent a relief for malnutrition and consequently for all the health problems it represents. It is also a simple way to reach the entire population in an economical way.

Golden rice in the Philippines. Photo: Golden rice
Golden rice. Photo: Golden rice

Currently, around the world, more than 500 thousand children a year suffer blindness from this cause, being an important reason for death.

 

The GMO Rice Debate in the Philippines

All this opens the debate on transgenic foods and their safety. Also on the problems in biodiversity all at a time when positions are radicalized. Some positions in the debate take into account food safety and base it on demonstrating that the use of these varieties are safe. On the other hand, other positions want to be totally respectful of nature.

 

They also doubt the effects on biodiversity and the depth of studies as well as side effects that are difficult to analyze. There are also intermediate positions where they justify it depending on which cases or to alleviate some diseases, limiting it only in some cases.

GM rice in the Philippines can now be grown freely. It has been declared safe in countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand and United Kingdoms. The aforementioned countries do not have malnutrition problems but it has taken advantage of the fact that the creators of golden rice gave a free patent to all countries that need to use it.

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