The Philippines recently ruled that Golden Rice, genetically engineered to contain vitamin A, is as safe as conventional rice. It was a monumental decision, long overdue and with global significance. Rice is a staple in so many countries but it contains no Vitamin A. That can lead to blindness and death.
Despite the solution Golden Rice provides, many countries have been reluctant to approve it — not because it was unsafe for consumption, but because it was viewed as opening the door to food biotechnology.
Photo: Cliffano Subagio
