EXTRACT: Studies in Germany and the USA by farmers themselves have shown that animals raised on non-GM feed produce better quality and a higher quantity of meat than animals fed on genetically modified feed. The same studies reported health problems, such as stomach ulcers, found in the animals fed on GM feed.

NOTE: Jill Evans MEP represents Wales in the European Parliament where she is a member of the Environment Committee. She is also the Vice President of Plaid Cymru.
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GM feed is not the answer for our animals
by Jill Evans
Western Mail, December 16 2008
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/countryside-farming-news/country-farming-columnists /2008/12/16/gm-feed-is-not-the-answer-for-our-animals-91466-22483001/

THE high cost of animal feed is a very serious concern for farmers and it has caused the issue of genetically modified feed to be raised again.

In the current financial situation, it is not surprising farmers, like all of us, are looking at how to cut costs. But turning to GM feed is not the answer. Neither is it cheaper.

And there is now evidence that genetically modified animal feed may well lead to higher costs in the long term.

Studies in Germany and the USA by farmers themselves have shown that animals raised on non-GM feed produce better quality and a higher quantity of meat than animals fed on genetically modified feed. The same studies reported health problems, such as stomach ulcers, found in the animals fed on GM feed.

So, far from cutting costs for farmers, the widespread use of GM feed could over time have the opposite effect. This would also push up prices for the consumer.

Further detailed study is needed. That's why I would like to see a professional, controlled scientific study being done in Wales into the effects of using genetically modified animal feed.

Last week, EU government ministers meeting in Brussels agreed much stricter rules for assessing the risks of GMOs to health and the environment.

There will be more independent scientists and other groups involved in the process and all information and studies done by the companies themselves should be made public. All the potential risks will be looked at. Regions and local communities will now have the right to declare GM-free zones, as Wales has done.

This is good news for everyone concerned because it will give us more confidence that safety comes first. The promise of more research is also important so that farmers and consumers alike know all the facts about GM feed.
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TAKE ACTION: Tell the supermarkets to ban the use of GM animal feed in their meat, dairy and egg production lines, and to mark their animal products as GM-free so consumers know they're not being exposed to stealth GMOs.
http://www.bangmfood.org/take-action