Australian OGTR considers license for GM wheat and barley field trial
AUSTRALIA- The Australian Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) is currently reviewing a license application (DIR 201) submitted by The University of Adelaide to conduct a field trial involving genetically modified (GM) wheat and barley with enhanced yield capabilities.
The proposed trial is slated to take place over an extended period, spanning from May 2024 to January 2029. The designated trial site is located within the Light Regional Council in South Australia, covering a maximum area of 2 hectares per year.
The trial will be subject to stringent control measures to restrict the spread and persistence of GM plants and their introduced genetic material To mitigate potential environmental impacts.
Notably, the GM wheat and barley under consideration will not be utilized for human consumption or as animal feed.
In preparation for the evaluation process, the OGTR is developing a comprehensive Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) specific to this application.
The regulatory body anticipates releasing the RARMP for public comment and seeking advice from experts, agencies, and authorities in January 2024.
Stakeholders and the general public will have a minimum of 30 days to submit their comments, ensuring a transparent and inclusive assessment of the proposed field trial.
The University of Adelaide’s application is significant, as it marks a step forward in agricultural research, aiming to explore the potential benefits of genetically modified crops.
Proponents argue that GM crops, engineered for increased yield, could play a crucial role in addressing global food security challenges.
However, concerns persist regarding the environmental impact and long-term consequences of introducing genetically modified organisms into natural ecosystems.
This development aligns with ongoing efforts to strike a balance between scientific innovation and environmental stewardship.
As the OGTR proceeds with its evaluation process, the public and relevant stakeholders will play a pivotal role in shaping the decision-making process through their input during the upcoming consultation period.
As genetic modification is becoming more popular, it is attracting more research and public opinion to enhance its utilization and acceptance among consumers.
In Australia, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) invited public commentary on an application that could see the introduction of genetically modified corn, line DP915635, into the food supply chain in September this year.
This genetically engineered corn variety boasts herbicide tolerance and built-in defenses against insect pests, potentially reshaping the food landscape in Australia and New Zealand.
The application currently under review opens the door to the sale and utilization of food products derived from this new GMO corn.
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