GM maize

Monsanto

Genetically modified (GM) maize imported into Mexico should be ground up and clearly labelled, according to a group of scientists who advise the governments of Canada, Mexico and the United States on trade issues. This, they say, would prevent accidental 'flow of genes' between GM and natural varieties.

The scientists have made their recommendations to the Commission for Environmental Cooperation, part of the North American Free Trade Agreement. But publication of the scientists' report was to be delayed until after next week's US presidential election.

The proposed delay prompted environmental group Greenpeace to leak the panel's recommendations, which the US Environmental Protection Agency has rejected as "flawed". Canada and the US currently export millions of tonnes of GM maize to Mexico.

Link to full Nature news story

Link to Greenpeace article

Reference: Nature 431, 1030 (2004)