Thousands of children could die after court backs campaign group over GM crop in Philippines, scientists warn

Scientists have warned that a court decision to block the growing of the genetically modified (GM) crop Golden Rice in the Philippines could have catastrophic consequences. Tens of thousands of children could die in the wake of the ruling, they argue.

The Philippines had become the first country – in 2021 – to approve the commercial cultivation of Golden Rice, which was developed to combat vitamin A deficiency, a major cause of disability and death among children in many parts of the world.

But campaigns by Greenpeace and local farmers last month persuaded the country’s court of appeal to overturn that approval and to revoke this. The groups had argued that Golden Rice had not been shown to be safe and the claim was backed by the court, a decision that was hailed as “a monumental win” by Greenpeace.

Many scientists, however, say there is no evidence that Golden Rice is in any way dangerous. More to the point, they argue that it is a lifesaver.

  • Silverseren
    18•1 month ago

    Monsanto has nothing to do with this topic. You’re just fearmongering.

    • @xmunk
      -12•1 month ago

      My trust has been eroded by this industry as a whole - I’m not saying their shit is dangerous but I won’t accept their claims on blind faith.

      It’s perfectly reasonable to demand a study in the name of public health.

      • Silverseren
        13•1 month ago

        They have been working on and testing this golden rice since 2000, with tons of studies done on its biochemistry, including from people eating it. In fact, several countries have already been using the rice for years What else are the scientists supposed to do to appear Greenpeace’s purposefully vague demands?

          • Silverseren
            1•1 month ago

            To show what exactly? It’s actually really hard to get desired new traits to retain themselves in cross-breeding experiments and even in regular generational breeding. That’s the whole issue with F1 hybrid plants having great hybrid traits, but you can’t replant them or they completely lose those traits.