biotechnology are referred to as Plants with Novel Traits.) When Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen directors recently debated genetically modified crops it was suggested that if cross- pollination were to occur, any resulting contamination means an organic farmer would be decertified, which would wipe out their business. “This is simply not true,” OSF argues, “as no organic grower has ever been decertified for this reason.” Carter said he has been asked repeatedly by regulatory agencies and growers’ groups to provide convincing evidence that cross-pollination could not occur. However, there does not appear to be a clear definition of what constitutes convincing evidence. In scientific terms, Carter is being asked to prove the null hypothesis, which is impossible to do.


“For the USDA APHIS, we were confronted with many similar challenges in preparing the deregulation petition. For example: proving that inhibited polyphenol oxidase doesn’t result in a tree that is more susceptible to pests and disease. This is hard to do even with 10 years


of data showing it doesn’t,” Carter said. When asked during a telephone interview what evidence Carter needs to provide, BCFGA president Kirpal Boparai paused before saying simply, “Nobody wants to risk the fruit industry.” Applications for genetically modified


organisms must be carefully vetted by regulatory agencies. The small, economically stressed Canadian apple industry is concerned about possible


negative responses by consumers. Thorough risk assessments should


be based on critical examination of all available information and consideration of possible adverse outcomes as well as opportunities. Arctic apples and the other technologies being developed by OSF might ultimately benefit consumers and enrich growers and processors. Which countries might realize the potential of these products remains to be seen.


12


British Columbia FRUIT GROWER • Fall 2012


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