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Ten things to know about genetic modification

Genetic Modification
  1. Genetic modification (GM) involves moving, inserting or deleting genes (the part of the cell that determines individual characteristics) within or between species. GM is only one aspect of biotechnology, which is a broader term that includes other techniques such as cloning and much older forms of biotechnology such as breadmaking, cheesemaking and brewing wine and beer.
  2. GM in New Zealand is strictly controlled through the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA). ERMA operates under strict laws, in line with the Government’s cautious approach to genetic modification. It considers each application on its merits and can approve it only if benefits outweigh risks.
  3. Following the expiry of the moratorium on 29 October 2003, ERMA can once again consider applications to release GM organisms on a case-by-case basis. It does not mean a flood of genetically modified organisms will be released into the environment.
  4. The Government has given ERMA new powers to set controls on the release of GM organisms. Controls could include; special security fencing, allowing release of only male animals (to prevent breeding), ensuring GM plants are grown a certain distance away from non-GM plants of the same species to prevent cross-pollination.
  5. ERMA must notify the public when it receives an application to release GM organisms, and accept submissions from anyone who wants to have a say in the application. ERMA must decline an application if it does not have complete information about the environmental, public health, economic and social and other likely impacts of the GM organism.
  6. ERMA’s decision to approve or decline an application can be appealed in the High Court. If the application goes ahead, conditions are monitored, enforced and amended as necessary by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and ERMA.
  7. The GM rules are designed to allow New Zealanders to enjoy the opportunities of organic and conventional agriculture, while at the same time not closing the door to the contribution that GM may make to our way of life (especially medicinal and therapeutic).
  8. GM is used in New Zealand for research and education, with much of the research being medical (eg, investigating treatments for multiple sclerosis or cystic fibrosis).
  9. Some medical drugs and treatments used in New Zealand (eg, insulin, growth hormones) are produced using GM technology, but they do not contain genetically modified organisms.
  10. Any food that is genetically modified or contains genetically modified material must be approved as safe by Food Standards Australia New Zealand and must be clearly labelled. No fresh produce (fruit or vegetables) or meat sold in New Zealand is genetically modified. There are no genetically modified crops (eg, potatoes, sweet corn) being grown commercially in New Zealand.

Last updated: 17 September 2007