NORTH AMERICAN BLUEBERRY COUNCIL

NABC POSITION ON TRANSGENIC PLANTS OR GMO's

At the North American Blueberry Council (NABC) 2001 winter meeting, the current controversy surrounding genetic engineering of plants and seeds was discussed. The NABC felt it was important to clarify our position on transgenic plants or GMO's (Genetically Modified Organisms) for the blueberry researchers who might be involved in this type of research.

• The NABC recognizes that transgenic plants developed using GMO technology will probably play an important role in food for the future.
• The NABC also recognizes that continued research into this area is important for the advancement of agriculture.
• However, due to the current public controversy surrounding the issue, the NABC is opposed to any development of transgenic blueberry clones at this time, whether for research purposes or for release as cultivars.

The NABC, along with blueberry sellers around the globe, are frequently asked by buyers whether or not they carry or process any GMO blueberry fruit. At this point in time we can all state unequivocally that there is no GMO blueberry fruit grown or in commerce. Our industry is able to avoid this issue.

Blueberries are perceived by the public as a health-promoting food. It is imperative to our economic well being that nothing is done to alter this view. A tarnish on this image would be much worse than any perceived benefits that we could see to GMO blueberries at this time

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