New Delhi, Sep 24 (IANS) Environment group Greenpeace Monday demanded suspension of ongoing genetically modified (GM) trials in the country saying a recent study has proved that long-term consumption of GM crops could lead to tumours and other severe health impacts.
According to the NGO, a new study published in the journal of Chemical and Food toxicology last week established the potential long-term impacts of GM food consumption.
The study, led by reputed molecular biologist Gallis Eric Seralini of the University of Caen, France, is one of the first studies to have been done over the entire lifespan of laboratory rats and is definitely the longest health impact study of GM crops and herbicides on laboratory animals.
"It is noteworthy that this study is beyond the 90 days tests for health impacts prescribed by regulatory authorities in India as well as many other countries," said Rajesh Krishnan, sustainable agriculture campaigner, Greenpeace India.
Currently in India, herbicide tolerant (HT) cotton and HT corn lead other GM crops in the pipeline.
"This study is a warning shot to India as there is an increased usage of herbicides in the country. Given that there is a push by industry and certain sections of the central government for herbicide tolerant GM crops in our country, this usage could go much higher. We demand an immediate suspension of all GM field trials in the country," Krishnan said.
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