NGFA Wants Tests to Detect Biotech Products

October 7, 1999

The National Grain and Feed Association wants seed companies to take the lead to develop tests that will help grain handlers and processors detect biotechnology-enhanced commodities. Biotech products may be approved by U.S. regulators, but NGFA says some customers have "additional preferences" that must be addressed.

In recommendations issued Wednesday, NGFA says it supports biotechnology and other scientific and technological innovations that "contribute to the availability of an adequate, safe and high quality food supply."

But "some customers may have additional preferences that must be effectively addressed by the grain production, marketing, processing and food industry supply chain to preserve the U.S. ability to maintain access to the broadest possible array of global customers."

The NGFA testifies today before the Senate Agriculture committee on biotechnology issues.

"To be able to serve a wide range of customer preferences efficiently and manage marketplace contingencies, the most critical factor is accurate and timely market information," says NGFA. "The ability to quickly and accurately assess grains and oilseeds to determine factors that are, or may be, related to customer preference and/or regulatory approval is essential."

Developing new testing technology should involve a "comprehensive strategy" to develop tests, preferably a single test, that are accurate, repeatable and low in cost and applicable to future releases of biotechnology-enhanced grains and oilseeds, says NGFA. "Having a single test capable of detecting the full range of biotechnology-enhanced events is highly preferable to minimize market-flow impediments and associated (market) risks."