Agric Minister Sees Potential of GM Oilseed Crops in Australia

At present genetically modified (GM) cotton is the only approved GM oilseed crop to be grown in Australia. But the situation may change soon. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Peter McGauran, encouraged the adoption of other GM oilseed crops such as soybean and canola, saying that Australia will benefit from healthier oils, cheaper production costs and reduced environmental impacts by using GM oilseed crops.

“Research is underway into the development of GM oilseed crops that produce healthier oils with better ratios of unsaturated fats, high levels of omega-3 oils which is normally sourced from fish, and increased levels of essential amino acids and vitamins,” McGauran said. “GM oilseeds also have the potential to cut production costs, increase product value and diversify the range of goods produced by the oilseed industry. With the acceptance of such GM oilseed varieties, Australia would successfully compete with GM canola and soybean varieties currently produced overseas.”

To read more: http://www.maff.gov.au/releases/07/07119pm.html.