May 19, 2006

Dairy farmers to approve GM grass if consumers go along

The South Australian Dairy Farmers Association said it would support the introduction of genetically modified (GM) pasture grasses provided it gains the nod from consumers.

A draft report for the Australian Dairy Industry Council recommends introducing GM grass for dairy cows after research indicated that it would lead to substantial gains in productivity.

The association's president, David Basham called for more investigations into the research.

Research needs to be on-going so that producers are ready when GM grass gains acceptance, Basham said.

However, he also cautioned that if consumers are reluctant to accept GM products, the industry would have to follow suit.

Developments in GM food has stirred fiery debates in the region as farmers held differing opinions.