“GM needed to keep feed costs low”
If the EU does not approve a genetically modified strain of maize, the costs for animal feed are likely to increase by 25%, according to the Northern Ireland Grain Trade Association (NIGTA).
Ulster consumers will no longer be able to choose
between imported meat and competitively priced local meat, but will instead have
to pay high prices for local produce, NIGTA president Robin Irvine warned. In a
briefing to food processors and retailers, he insisted that a lack of
decision-making in Brussels is putting European food production and safety at
risk.
between imported meat and competitively priced local meat, but will instead have
to pay high prices for local produce, NIGTA president Robin Irvine warned. In a
briefing to food processors and retailers, he insisted that a lack of
decision-making in Brussels is putting European food production and safety at
risk.
Approval delays
The GM
maize trait Herculex was pronounced safe for import for animal and human food,
but EU approval is pending. Mr Irvine said: “The EU and particularly Northern
Ireland is dependant on the import of protein-rich feeds such as soya and maize
products, and predictions by Brussels officials are that approval delays could
mean that feed costs in Europe could reach an increase of 25% by 2009. This will
make food production in the EU completely uncompetitive.”
Related
website:
NIGTA
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