According to Xinhua News Agency, on January 22 in Beijing, a statement was made by Chen Xiwen, deputy director of the Central Rural Work Leading Group and head of the State Council Information Office, emphasizing that genetically modified (GM) foods undergo strict safety assessments and inspections, ensuring consumers have the right to know. He stated that these principles will remain unchanged in the long term.
Chen also mentioned that while molecular-level breeding is considered cutting-edge technology in global life sciences, China, as a major agricultural country, must keep up with international advancements. This year’s Central Document No. 1 highlights the importance of strengthening basic research and biotechnology development, particularly in molecular breeding. These efforts are closely tied to the implementation of China's grain security strategy, which includes ensuring domestic production, appropriate imports, and supporting scientific innovation.
Despite this progress, the number of GM food products currently available in China remains limited. While China ranks among the top countries in terms of GM crop cultivation area, only one GM fruit—papaya—is commonly consumed. Vegetables like tomatoes and peppers are not genetically modified.
Chen emphasized that any GM product entering the market must pass rigorous safety reviews. Only those proven safe without harmful side effects can be approved for sale. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture has established strict regulations and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the safety of GM products throughout their lifecycle.
Transparency is also a key aspect. In China, any product containing GM ingredients must be clearly labeled so that consumers can make informed choices. Unlike the U.S., where GM labeling is not mandatory, or the EU, which enforces strict labeling laws, China takes a balanced approach to ensure consumer awareness.
Chen reiterated that the two core principles—strict safety assessments and transparent information—will remain consistent over time.
In related news, more than 80% of papayas in China are genetically modified. A genetically modified variety called “Rainbow†saved Hawaii’s papaya industry from a devastating virus in the late 1990s. Similarly, in China, the genetically modified “Huaonong No. 1†papaya, developed at South China Agricultural University, received a safety certificate in 2006 and is now widely cultivated. Experts note that over 95% of papayas sold in Guangdong are genetically modified.
Professor Zhang Dabing from Shanghai Jiaotong University argues that when properly regulated, genetically modified crops are safe and offer significant benefits. He points out that transgenic technology allows for disease resistance, reducing the need for pesticides and protecting the environment.
Li Shifang, an expert at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, confirmed that long-term studies on the safety of GM papaya have found no issues. Overall, the role of genetic modification in agriculture continues to evolve, driven by the need for sustainable and efficient food production.
Pipe Ball,Steel Clamped Ball Valve,Steel Welded Ball Valve,Stainless Steel Pipe Ball Valve
Antong Valve Co.,Ltd , https://www.atvalveball.com