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Debunking Myths about Golden Rice
Over the years, genetically engineered crops have received a lot of flak for the perceived dangers to human health. However, science has come a long way in debunking these myths and proving the benefits that these crops such as the Golden Rice can deliver to the Filipino people. Amid a new moratorium imposed on Bttalong and Golden Rice by the Manila Court of Appeals, here are some proven facts about Golden Rice.
Essential Nutrition: As a staple food in Filipino households, rice plays a pivotal role in addressing hunger and bridging the gap in micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among pregnant women and children. Combatting VAD: Vitamin A deficiency, a prevalent issue in the Philippines, is a leading cause of preventable blindness among children in developing nations. The Golden Rice Project aims to alleviate this burden by introducing rice enriched with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A upon consumption. Impactful Solution: With an estimated 2 million Filipino children under the age of 5 affected by VAD, Golden Rice stands as a promising solution to address this nutritional deficiency, especially for those who lack reliable access to alternative sources of vitamin A. Milestones and Achievements: Collaborative Development: PhilRice and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) jointly spearheaded the development of Golden Rice, leveraging modern biotechnology techniques to enhance its nutritional content. Genetic Enhancement: Golden Rice underwent genetic modification by incorporating genes from daffodils, common soil bacteria, and maize (corn), resulting in a twentyfold increase in beta-carotene content. Humanitarian Initiative: The technology behind Golden Rice was donated to the Golden Rice Humanitarian Board in 2004, facilitating its transfer to developing countries, including the Philippines, where VAD is prevalent. Regulatory Approval: Golden Rice received positive food safety evaluations from regulatory agencies in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States, affirming its safety for consumption. Government Endorsement: The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) granted a permit for the direct use of Golden Rice as food and feed, as well as for processing in the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards availability. Field Trials and Commercial Propagation: Field trials conducted in Nueva Ecija and Isabela were completed successfully, leading to the issuance of a biosafety permit for the commercial propagation of Golden Rice by the DA-BPI in July 2021. |
CA moratorium on GM products can cause ripple effect in value chain; massive wave of price hikes for meat, fish – PSIA
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