Gene genie

I feel Sir Peter Gluckman is giving mixed messages by urging New Zealand to loosen laws governing the application of gene technology in agriculture and the environment (NZ Herald, July 31) while calling for robust public debate on the subject. In his opinion New Zealand will become a “backwater” if we don’t embrace genetic modification, and the technology is safe. This language is not only patronising and presumptuous, it is incorrect. To date there have been no long-term studies on human health and wellbeing of consuming genetically modified foods. Nor is there international agreement or understanding of liability or redress when it comes to environmental damage or adverse effects of GMO (genetically modified organisms) release and consumption. There are a growing number of countries, 41 at present, that have banned the cultivation and release of GMOs. Many also ban the importation of genetically modified food and other material. Of the remaining nations — including America, Australia, Scandinavia and some in Europe — whole regions have been designated GMO-free. People the world over want pure natural food, with ethics and animal welfare also more of a priority. Far from becoming a backwater, New Zealand has a valuable window of opportunity to be one of the cleanest, most ethical, sustainable, GMO-free food producers in the world.

Michelle Androu, Narrow Neck.