Stop that (Frankenstein) Potato!

The criticism expressed by many European countries against the decision of Barroso Commission to allow the growth of genetically modified (GM) potatoes in the European Union finally touched Estonia and obliged the Ministry of Agriculture Toivo Nõvandi to explain how people should not fear the arrive of the Frankenstein potato on their tables.

Already found potentially dangerous for health and therefore forbidden back few years ago, the GM starch potato Amflora is now allowed not for commercial but, strictly, only for industrial use.

Explaining how this should not be a major issue in Estonia since there is no starch industry in the country, Nõvandi found support also from the Estonian Ministry for Environment since its nature protection department adviser Ms. Liina Eek clarified the complex system that authorities will set on the matter.

The company that is responsible for marketing the potatoes will have to conclude a direct contract with every grower, guaranteeing that all of the production would be bought and farmers won’t have to sell the production at market.