Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
chloroplasts, hence pollen is not a transmitter, which prevents gene flow
from the genetically modified plant to other plants. So far this third
option has only been proven reliable for tobacco. As an example of a
so-called technological barrier, operating like a “natural” molecular con-
finement mechanism, there is a provision under discussion to the effect
that plant-made pharmaceuticals will only be hosted by nonfood/non-
feed crops (like tobacco), hence reducing the risk of contaminating the
food/feed chain. These strategies relate to “safety by design” strategies.
In addition, the setup of a closed system for production (contained
conditions and no chance of open pollination) using airtight greenhouses,
and covering inflorescence, qualifies as a physical barrier. Crop destruc-
tion after extraction of protein is also a physical barrier to prevent any
unwanted mutation. Of course fences and “no entry” signs, as in any
high-risk plant, are also considered.
A fourth element, included in the first barrier type, uses agro-
nomic techniques: coexistence measures like crop rotation, cultivation
in remote areas, buffer zones, staggered planting of GMOs versus neigh-
boring food and feed crops, or distinct visual markers exist already and
could serve as an interesting addition to a more complete arsenal.
AdministrativeBarriers
In Chapter 7, Armin Sp ok gives examples of several Standard Operating
Procedures currently discussed or proposed by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture. They are geared to plant-made pharmaceuticals, but could
well apply to first-generation GM crops. Relying on Sp ok's information,
Standard Operating Procedures will be developed for seeding, trans-
planting, harvesting, cleaning, storing, dying, and processing of biomass.
They will also control the use of machinery, and promote dedicated use
of machinery to minimize contacts between GM and non-GM products.
Incidentally, this list of concrete activities carried out on farm sites gives
us a perspective on the broad safety aspects involved.
