This is entirely out of step with world public opinion. Any move to approve genetically engineered foods rapidly will inflame public opinion and cause lack of confidence and unrest among the public. The Natural Food Commission believes that the necessary first step is a genuine public debate on the risks and acceptability of genetically altered foods followed by public referenda in both New Zealand and other countries. This is a matter of global human rights. Timing Due to repeated delays in Government decision making, an immediate moratorium on the introduction of GE foods should be imposed until a referendum can be held.
Timing is of the essence.
If the present plans of biotechnology companies come to fruition almost all the fruit and vegetables we eat will be genetically engineered within a few years. Every new growing season from now on will see a host of new genetically engineered crops, foods, and additives attempting to reach the market. It is an apparent strategy of biotechnology companies and countries with substantial biotech industries to engineer the postponement of national and international decisions on labelling and testing. Therefore an interim moratorium on the sale of gene-altered foods will protect the public until the Government can reach a decision on this issue. Any delay in enacting a moratorium will mean that genetically engineered food will enter the food chain by default without adequate testing for health risks.