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Published on December 3, 2007

Institute executive director Jeffrey Smith said there were many published and unpublished studies showing adverse reactions to genetically modified, or GM, food in test animals and possible reactions in humans.

Working with more than 30 scientists over the past two years, Smith identified as many as 65 health risks to both humans and animals from consumption of GM foods.

Risks, including liver-cell problems in laboratory mice and changes in cell metabolism in rabbit organs, are documented in the book.

Speaking to The Nation during his whirlwind trip to the Kingdom to spread the institute's word through a book, "Genetic Roulette", Smith recommends policy-makers in this country read it before taking action.

"Right now there is no reliable scientific evidence to guarantee GM food is safe, but many studies talk about its risks. I wish this government worried more about health risks from GM food," he said.

Smith attempted to get a copy of his book to Public Health Minister Mongkol na Songkhla.

The Cabinet tomorrow reviews the ban on GM-crop trials. If it is lifted, Smith worries GM seeds will spread throughout the country's farms.

Thai Organic Trade Association president Wanlop Pichpongsa wanted policy-makers to listen to Smith's concerns. "We haven't heard much about health risks from GM food here; it's mostly been worries about environmental impact. I think it will be better if the government listens to him and pays attention to the harm GM food can have on human health," he said.

Thailand has no regulations banning GM food products entering Thailand. The government requires only that foods containing GM ingredients be clearly labelled. However, GM seeds can be imported only for laboratory tests. Farm trials were banned in 2004 when it was discovered GM cotton had spread to other farms.

Pennapa Hongthong

The Nation