The potential of genetically modified (GM) crops to help 'feed the world' should not be undermined by anti-GM lobby groups, according to Johnjoe McFadden, professor of molecular genetics at the University of Surrey.

In a commentary article in today's Guardian, McFadden also highlights the extent of biotechnology research currently conducted in developing countries. For example, the Beijing Genomics Institute was one group to publish a draft of the rice genome earlier this month.

Biotechnology should be seen as "more appropriate for the developing world than most high technologies", and western lobbyists must not stand in the way of its development, he says.

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