It's becoiming increasingly clear that the initial claims that Syngenta's rogue corn (maize) - Bt10 - was almost identical to an approved corn - Bt11 - were bogus - like the claims that only small quantities were involved.
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OPEN COMMUNICATION
Geoffrey Podger Esq
25 March 2005
Dear Mr Podger,
Bt10 - REQUEST FOR IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
Further to our communication of 24 March we now understand that:
1. Bt10 has an antibiotic resistance gene which is not present in Bt11, and a different promoter as well.
2. Apparently in the USA Bt10 has been planted everywhere except the northeast for at least 4 years, perhaps longer, and consequently we can assume that all non-organic maize (and probably some organic maize) is contaminated with it.
3. With the Starlink episode only the company involved had a methodology to identify it in the field. However, whilst in that case the FDA developed a testing method of its own, and embargoed contaminated corn, it is understood that with Bt10 they are not planning to take similar action.
You will be aware that within the USA the EPA has responsibility for health and environmental safety related only to the transgenic protein, while USDA and FDA must vouch for the safety of the other transgenic elements as well as for the combined effects of the whole inserted genetic package None of those three organisations had any knowledge of Bt10.
Bearing in mind the foregoing we request the EFSA take immediate action to:
1. Demand a full and prompt disclosure of the make up of Bt10. That to include clear evidence that the amino acid sequence is, as claimed, identical to Bt11.
2. Demand from Syngenta a full disclosure of any locations in Europe where Bt10 was released.
3. Pending the introduction of a methodology to determine levels of Bt10 contamination impose a full and immediate embargo on the importation of US maize to the European Union.
You will note, once again, by copy of this letter, the Food Standards Agency is being alerted to this situation for their necessary action.
Yours Sincerely
Ian Panton
GM Free Cymru
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