Okanagan orchardists upset over genetically modified apples

by Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star posted Feb 13, 2015 at 2:00 PM

Okanagan orchardists vow to fight a genetically modified apple despite U.S. approval. On Friday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture decided to deregulate Arctic apple varieties developed by Summerland’s Okanagan Speciality Fruits. When cut, the apple does not brown. “We regret that the U.S. is approving the Arctic Granny Smith and Arctic golden delicious,” said Fred Steele, B.C. Fruit Producers Association pfresident. “The apple is considered a pure, unadulterated product, similar to milk. In a 2012 national survey of consumers, 71 per cent said they agreed that there should be categories of food that should not be genetically engineered. Our members would like the apple market to remain free of GM apples.” The BCFGA, representing 520 commercial tree fruit growers in the Okanagan, has opposed the approval of GM apples in Canada due to possible market backlash that could impact all apple sales. While the U.S. government has deregulated the Arctic apple, the product is not approved in Canada at this time. “If consumers want to be perfectly assured that they are not eating a GMO apple, then avoid purchase of U.S. Granny Smith and golden delicious apples,” said Steele. “We will advise the public when the product is approved in Canada, and seek to isolate any damage that the apple will cause in the marketplace by advising consumers how to continue purchasing apples while avoiding the Arctic apple, if they so desire. We would prefer if the Canadian government would place a moratorium on the Arctic apple, until we see the result of the market experiment in the U.S.” Officials with Okanagan Speciality Fruits says the U.S. decision has been two decades in the making. “For our fellow growers, this means that Arctic trees can now be purchased and grown just like any other apple trees,” said OSF’s Neal Carter in a blog. “For consumers, it means that we will be working hard to get as many trees in the ground as possible so that you’ll be able to purchase Arctic apples in stores within the next few years.” Carter says that because it takes apple trees a number of years to produce significant amounts of fruit, it will likely be 2016 before any Arctic apples are available for small, test-markets. “Following that, we expect increasing amounts of fruit each year, including additional non-browning varieties like Arctic gala and Arctic Fuji. “The supply-chain can feel confident knowing that Arctic apples are likely the most tested apples in existence. Rigorously reviewed by multiple regulatory bodies, all evaluations reach the same conclusion – Arctic apples present no unique risks and are just as safe and healthful as any other apple.”

Readers write - March against the cause! - Update

Sue Kelsey, copied on this email, organized the March Against Monsanto in Vernon yesterday - I've written a release on it below and posted a few low res pictures but Russ (also copied) can send you higher resolution pictures of anything that is of interest. As well, if you'd like to speak to the organizer, please feel free to contact Sue.It was truly a surprise to see many young parents whom we had never seen before - seems like people are getting more aware.

I've also copied below a letter to the editor written by dr. Thierry Vrain, the scientist who used to promote GMO in Peachland when they first came out - he's touring the country with dr. Shiv Chopra, author of "Corrupt to the core" about Health Canada speaking against GM crops and Roundup, in case it's of interest,
(Dr. Thierry Vrain's Letter is available from Huguette!)

Huguette Allen,
Phone: 250.547.0272
Co-Founder Bee SAFE
Director SENS

More pictures on the Vernon event:

Directors want terms clarified

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 8, 2013 at 1:00 AM—
A full understanding of terminology is needed before two communities send a message about genetically modified food.The Electoral Area Advisory Committee is holding back temporarily on proposed policies regarding the growing of genetically modified organisms in Cherryville and rural Lumby.“We want a further definition on the wording,” said Rick Fairbairn, rural Lumby director.“The policy referred to genetically engineered and is genetically modified organisms the same as GE or are they independent from each other? ”But once terms are clarified, the goal is to proceed with an official community plan change because residents in both areas have asked for it. However, Cherryville director Eugene Foisy points out that referencing GMOs does not mean the products are banned. “It (OCP) will encourage people to get into non-GMO stuff but we don’t have any power to stop it,” he said. Recently, the Regional District of North Okanagan board asked the federal government to establish the appropriate agency to regulate, test and assess the safety of GMO foods in Canada.

Would you support your region becoming GMO Free?”

MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 4th December 2013

About 250 people came to hear scientist Thierry Vrain's recent presentation on “Genetically Modified Foods and Human Health”, in Vernon last week. Dr. Vrain clearly demonstrated the dangers associated with GM crops. As a geneticist who worked with agriculture Canada for 30 years, Dr. Vrain fully understands why farmers were attracted to the promises of GM crops. However, now that independent science is available and that the initial promises have proven empty, he warns of the dangers of letting these crops continue to proliferate and contaminate the soil, water, and food supply.
Among the issues discussed, Dr. Vrain insisted on the fact that GM crops were never independently tested prior to their release. Test results were given to governments by the same corporations that profited from the sales of the GM seeds and the pesticides used to grow them.
He then spoke of how GM corporate interests are now permeating not only government, but also science as industry finances universities and corporate officials sit on boards of scientific journals.
Dr. Vrain was in Vernon as part of a cross-Canada tour he is doing most often accompanied by Dr. Shiv Chopra, the author of “Corrupt to the Core” a book that tells “what happens when your government chooses to Side-Step Scientific Truth”. Dr. Chopra is the scientist who, when working for Health Canada, refused to sign up on the Bovine Growth Hormone. Unfortunately dr. Chopra was not able to be in Vernon but his speech on the “Canada's Food: the most toxic on the planet” can be heard on BeeSafeMonashees.orghttp://beesafemonashees.org/
Dr. Chopra talks of how hormones, antibiotics, slaughterhouse waste, GMO and pesticides – and are all in our food system illegally, making Canadian food the most toxic in the entire planet. Europe, in comparison, bans or regulates four out of the five unwanted contaminants.
Both scientists are donating their time to inform people about the danger of corporate food, and the need to act now, and not wait for politicians, in order to take the power back from corporatocracy. Farmers and growers take note: In Vernon, as in other places across BC, people all stand up and cheer when asked “Would you support your region becoming GMO Free?” !

Local orchardists say no to genetically modified apple

by Kelowna Capital News - Kelowna Capital News posted Nov 15, 2013 at 9:34 AM

The BCFGA Fruit Growers’ Association has asked government for an immediate moratorium for a genetically modified apple, known under the trademark Arctic Apple. The Arctic Apple has recently been in the news as its owner claims that the approval of the apple in the U.S. is imminent. A parallel regulatory process is underway in Canada. The BCFGA wrote to the Health Minister Rona Ambrose and Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz today to request that the regulatory process for the Arctic Apple be suspended. “Our concern is the negative publicity for apples in general caused by the controversy over this GM apple. There is potential market damage caused to apple markets if this GM apple is approved – indeed, it seems the damage is occurring even while the apple is in the regulatory process and a decision on its approval is still pending. The public thinks of apples as a pure, natural, healthy and nutritional fruit. GM apples are a risk to our market image,” said Jeet Dukhia, president of the BCFGA. The BCFGA is opposed to the introduction of the GM apple, with this position endorsed by its delegates at its annual convention. The Canadian Horticulture Council’s Apple Working Group, a national committee of representatives from each apple growing province, is in favour of a moratorium on the introduction of the Arctic Apple. The public is skeptical about GM food according to a 2012 national survey, which the BCFGA completed in partnership with the Quebec Apple Producers Association. The survey showed that 69% of Canadians are not in favour of GM food and 91% said GM labelling should be mandatory. “If 76% of people say the Canadian government has not provided adequate information to the public on GM foods, how can the government then approve these products for introduction to an unprepared marketplace? This places the entire apple market at risk, and we have asked that the government place an immediate, pre-emptive moratorium on the on this apple before our markets suffer,” said Dukhia.

MEDIA ADVISORY - Canadian Scientist Speaks to Health Risks of GE Foods

What: Genetically Engineered Foods & Human Health: A Cross-Canada Speaker’s Tour will be stopping in Vernon
Who: SENS and the Food Action Society are partnering with GE Free BC & the Greenpeace Vancouver Local Group
When: Thursday November 28th, 7 PM
Where: Schubert Centre, 3505 30th Ave.
Why: In Canada, genetically engineered (GE, also called genetically modified or GM) salmon, apples, and alfalfa are close to entering the marketplace. Canada already grows: GM corn, GM canola, GM sugar beet, and GM soy. Therefore, it is more important than ever for Canadians to have the opportunity to discuss their concerns about GE foods and their impacts on human health. Featuring a presentation by Dr. Thierry Vrain, a retired geneticist who now advocates against GE foods, this event will address the science behind GE foods, the documented effects of GE foods on human health, and what the future holds for us if GE foods are not stopped.
Contact: Huguette Allen.
Tel: 250-547-0272
Email: beesafemonashees@gmail.com
Website: gefreebc.wordpress.com/gefoodstour and www.Sensociety.org

NOTE: Dr. Vrain will be available for interviews on Thursday November 28th in Vernon. Please contact me to set up an interview time.
huguette allen.

Regional politicians won't speak out against GMOs

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: November 07, 2013 1:00 AM
North Okanagan politicians want assurances genetically modified organisms are safe, but they won't wade into the contentious debate of whether such products should be used. Despite significant pressure to speak out against genetically modified crops, the Regional District of North Okanagan decided Wednesday only to ask the federal government to establish the appropriate agency to regulate, test and assess the safety of GMO foods in Canada. "The regional district has not authority to take a stance for or against," said director Eugene Foisy. Director Rob Sawatzky insisted that RDNO can only ask Ottawa to take action and there is no role for local government to play. "We don't have the tools and we don't have the responsibilities," he said. "It's a mandate of the federal government that's been dropped in our lap." The RDNO board had asked its regional agricultural advisory committee to investigate GMOs and the concerns some residents have about public health, food security and the environment. However, the advisory committee opted not to make a recommendation and encouraged the regional board to determine any policy direction. "It's a political issue and many members of the RAAC are volunteers," said director Mike Macnabb, who chairs the committee. The closest that RDNO may come to taking a stance is amending the official community plan in rural Lumby and Cherryville so it references genetically modified organisms. However, that won't mean such crops are banned. "It will only be a motherhood statement because we have no jurisdiction," said Foisy. Okanagan-Shuswap MP Colin Mayes will be asked to represent the interests of the RDNO.
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A response from Bee Safe:
http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/opinion/letters/230661091.html

Anti-GMO bylaw up for discussion

By Charlotte Helston  Info_Tel Multimedia August 07, 2013 - 3:06 PM 
NORTH OKANAGAN - In response to a community outcry calling for a ban on genetically engineered food being grown in the area, the North Okanagan Regional District is proposing a bylaw encouraging the cultivation of non-GMO crops, but not prohibiting them. At an electoral area advisory committee meeting Thursday, directors will discuss a bylaw regarding Genetically Modified Organisms. The bylaw would be incorporated into the Official Community Plans of Electoral areas "E" and "D", which include Cherryville, Trinity Valley and Creighton Valley. Regional growth strategy coordinator Anthony Kittel says it's a first step in the process and there are no guarantees directors will approve the bylaw for a first reading. The proposed bylaw was drafted in response to concerns brought forward by community members. "This is based upon the activities and decisions that have occurred with the Bee SAFE initiative," Kittel says. "The community is always taken into consideration (with the Official Community Plan)." He says the bylaw "reflects the wishes of the community regarding Genetically Modified Organisms," however a staff report makes it clear the regional district is powerless in banning GMO crops. The regional district says the bylaw would support "broad community objectives" where they encourage others to take actions to further the objectives of the community plan. According to the regional district, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Health Canada share authority over the regulation of agricultural practices, and municipal and regional governments "cannot enforce restrictions that limit farmers from farming under normal farm practices." If the amendment is approved for a first reading, Kittel says various agencies, including First Nations and the Ministry of Agriculture would be consulted. There would also be opportunities for public input before a finalized version of the bylaw is fully endorsed.

Proposed Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2603 (Genetically Modified Organisms)
4.2.19: Support local agriculture through favourable consideration of proposals that enhance local agriculture through the strengthening of beneficial agricultural practices, support of local food systems, and the expansion of local markets and agri-tourism. The community supports sustainable, non-genetically engineered (GE), traditional and organic agricultural practices in Electoral Areas "D' and "E".
4.2.20: The residents of Electoral Area "E" (Cherryville) do not support the introduction, use, cultivation or propagation of genetically engineered (GE) organisms and encourage Electoral Area "E" agricultural producers to adopt a GE free policy for locally grown agricultural products.
4.2.21: The RDNO encourages senior governments to require the labeling of genetically-engineered organisms intended for human consumption.

Genetically modified fruit debated

Friday, 22 June 2012 02:00  SCOTT TRUDEAU Penticton Herald

A move to certify a genetically engineered (GE) apple has resulted in a motion by the Regional District Okanagan-Similkameen to forward a letter to the Union of B.C. Municipalities. Allan Patton, rural director for area C, at the request of the B.C. Fruit Growers Association has asked to look into the establishment of a genetically engineered free zone for tree fruit products for respective regional districts. Okanagan Specialty Fruits has developed a non-browning apple and is applying for certification both in Canada and the United States. The company has developed a process which blocks the apple gene that causes apples to turn brown. The motion stems from concerns that a neighbouring orchard can be contaminated when a pollinating insect such as a honeybee transports pollen from one orchard to another. If a bee were to transfer pollen to an organic tree from one that is genetically modified any resulting contamination means an organic farmer would be de-certified which would wipe out their business. A commercial fruit grower such as Patton would also be banned from selling to their local packing house if any of the fruit was contaminated in the same manner. RDOS directors have been debating how to approach the issue at previous meetings. The motion asks for the UBCM to call on the provincial government to legislate the prohibition of importing, exporting and the domestic production of fruit and plant material containing genetically engineered DNA and to declare through legislation that B.C. is a GE-free province in respect to all tree fruit products. The motion also asks the UBCM to forward the motion to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for similar consideration for legislation by the federal government to establish Canada as a GE-free country with respect to tree fruit products. "This motion is still strongly worded," said Patton at Thursday's RDOS meeting. "It gives us the opportunity to say to the UBCM for the province to actually deal with this issue." Patton believes both levels of government should consider any negative consequences around the production of GE fruit, stating at a previous meeting an estimated 90 per cent of all fruit growers would be affected should contamination occur. "How do I prevent my farm from being contaminated by other people with GE? Really this is the only way," he said. Tom Siddon, RDOS director for Area D, said although he'd like to see data to support the effects of cross-pollination contamination he's willing to support Patton's motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Genetic engineers publish damning evidence-based report about GMO food

A damning new evidence-based report about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has just been published – and it reveals that most of the claims made by the pro-GM camp are nothing more than hot air. Genetic engineers on genetic modification of food

This comprehensive and fascinating report, published by non-governmental organisation Earth Open Source, is entitled GMO Myths and Truths: An evidence-based examination of the claims made for the safety and efficacy of genetically modified crops.  What makes it so powerful is that two of the authors are genetic engineers – Michael Antoniou PhD, of King’s College London School of Medicine in the UK, and John Fagan PhD, a leading sustainability expert in food system, biosafety, and GMO testing, and founder/chief scientific officer of the Global Id Group.   

The report effectively dismisses the “far reaching claims” used as the basis for extensive promotion of GMO crops by the biotech industry, governments and government agencies and proponents of GMO technology.  It reveals that the exact opposite of the pro-GM claims is true pretty much universally.  Most notably, the reports shows that GMOs are associated with hazards to health and the environment – none of which comes as a surprise to those of us who have been following GMO developments closely.

Rather than representing the solution to world hunger, GMOs, according to these authors, not only fail to deal with the problem, but they also distract from its real causes: “Poverty, lack of access to food and, increasingly, lack of access to land to grow it on”.

The report provides evidence that conventional plant breeding outperforms GM crops in terms of yield, drought tolerance, disease and pest resistance – all of which confirms the findings of a 30-year study comparing organic with conventional farming methods, including GMOs.  GMO-free farming is absolutely able to meet our present and future food needs, without all the risks and damage being wreaked by GMO technology!

The new report also echoes the findings of 400 scientists from 60 countries who concluded, back in 2008, that GMOs were no solution to food shortages in the developing world.  This research was detailed in the UN’s International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development (IAASTD) report.

The 2008 report concluded that GM raises numerous contentious issues for developing countries, such as gene transfer, contamination of organic crops, undermining of local practices, reduced food security and unpredictable or reduced yields.

Opposition to GMO technology can no longer be dismissed as emotional anti-science or pseudoscience.  With every uncomfortable truth and dirty trick now exposed by solid science from genetic engineers themselves, GMO food and agriculture now looks less like an impressive, modern technology, and more like a dangerous and foolhardy con trick designed to secure ownership of the world’s food supply for highly unscrupulous and unethical corporations.