July 15, 2011

Australia's dairy sector wants further deliberation on GM produce

The dairy industry of Australia is discussing on a new point of view the pros and cons of genetically modified (GM) crops.

The dairy industry's R and D body says it's working nationally on better understanding and engaging in consumer debates about everything from food safety to animal welfare.

Dairy Australia's Dr Julie Iommi says potential GM benefits are lost on consumers if they cannot be given a personal reason to support new science.

"Genetic modification links to the whole question about how are we going to feed the world," she said. "(There are) some great technologies coming down the pipe, but are they acceptable to the public? Because consumers are not interested in benefits for farmers or benefits for industry, they want to know about benefits for themselves."