Zespri Staying GE Free
Zespri are keeping Kiwi fruit 'GE free' and say that new DNA research will be used ethically to enhance traditional
breeding without genetically engineering New Zealand's iconic fruit.
Bryan Parkes, Innovation Leader for New Products at ZESPRI says the industry has a significant program in new variety
development using natural breeding, not genetic engineering.
"No GM technology is used. The use of gene markers does not involve any genetic modification and only makes the
screening of the seedlings produced by pollination and germination more efficient," he says.
"Industry support for GE-free agriculture is vital and fits with New Zealand's clean, green , natural image that is
vital to the economy," says Jon Carapiet from GE-free NZ in food and environment.
Dairy industry giant Fonterra, and organisations like Crop and Food Research will harm New Zealand's international
reputation with consumers if they push GE production.
"The reputation of Brand New Zealand is worth billions and must not be undermined by the release of GE crops or food
products."
Zespri are showing the way for other New Zealand industries by using genetic science in a way which is ethical and
harmonises with consumer values around the world.
Zespri 'get it'; they understand the consumer demand for clean, natural foods produced in a way Prince Charles once
described as working 'with the grain of nature', not against it.
ENDS