GE Free New Zealand PRESS RELEASE –20.7.07
GE Free NZ (in food and environment) supports the NZFSA on their strong stand against the use of Fructooligosaccharides
(FOS) in baby formula’s. Though their initial decision to take action is to be congratulated, much more is urgently
needed.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are artificially-made inulin sweeteners using bleached white cane sugar and genetically
modified (GM) enzymes.
Natural inulin is a safe fructose found in the sunflower, elecampane, Jerusalem artichoke family. Inulin in these plant
roots is used in helping with insulin control and is therefore good for diabetics.
However the amount of inulin found in plants is small in comparison to the synthetic GM production techniques that
manufacturers of baby food and other products are using. (1)
FOS have been given 'Generally Recommended As Safe' (GRAS) status, but have not been clinically tested despite their use
in commercial yoghurts, baby foods, cakes and sweets being marketed as providing beneficial bacteria.
FOS are soluble but inert in the stomach and small intestine though absorbed and synthesised in the colon by bacteria.
FOS also stimulates the growth of Klebsiella and possibly other pathogenic organisms. In one study, Klebsiella was found
to be associated with certain auto-immune disease.
The use of genetically modified bacteria in the production of sweeteners like aspartame and FOS, is of growing concern
having been linked to allergy symptoms, bloating, flatulence and stomach upsets in users. Previously production of
L-tryptophan using a GM bacterial process resulted in a very rare disease Eosinophilia myalgia syndrome, killing 37
people and permanently maiming 1500.
“These symptoms could lead to dehydration and severe ill-health for our children and the elderly” says Claire Bleakley
of GE Free NZ (in Food and Environment).
“The use of GM artificial sweeteners could be the trigger for the onset of diabetes and stomach problems, and we
urgently need more research into the possible link between the use of these sweeteners and chronic diseases. Such
ingredients should undergo clinical trials before they are considered for use,” she says.
We would like to ask that the NZFSA follow up these legitimate scientific concerns and extend their precautionary
approach to other foods that contain GM ingredients that are increasingly entering our food chain without any
independent testing.
ENDS: