Why rush blindly into cultivating GMO crops?

A clash of opinions over genetically modified organisms (GMO) is inevitable in Thailand because we have had no comprehensive academic debate on GMO’s safety that might garner public trust. Both the sceptics and the promoters have good points, but nothing can be concluded clearly until a solid, non-compromised study is done to satisfy both sides.
However, if Thailand wants to do business with the European Union, it must maintain its trust – which is sometimes fragile. For this reason Thailand should think twice about GMOs. Unless you have worked in a food company that sells to the EU, you have no idea of the pains and scrutiny involved to meet EU regulatory requirements – from sourcing traceable raw materials to documentation. These can spell the end of many (especially smaller) food companies, even if they do not use GMO materials.
Hopefully, before any final decision is made, the responsible parties will exercise due diligence by studying the true impacts (positive and negative) of GMO on the entire Thai food industry, from small to large companies, and a fair public debate will ensue. Special consideration might also be given to the impact on small and medium-sized enterprises.
Let’s learn to walk this path together. Let the public know the risks, the benefits, and who will be responsible and accountable. The public has the right to know, and smaller food companies without a voice need to be heard. If we don’t know the impacts or are unable to forecast them, why rush into it now?
Pavinee Chinachoti
Food scientist