BIO Statement: USDA Provides Strong Oversight of Agricultural Biotechnology

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 16, 2007) – Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Greenwood today issued the following statement on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s oversight of products of agricultural biotechnology:  

“The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) and its members are committed to the safety and stewardship of products of agricultural biotechnology.  We believe that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), with strong industry support, provides stringent oversight in the regulation of plants and crops improved through biotechnology.  Over the last few years, USDA has enhanced its environmental review procedures for biotech-derived plants. 

“Today’s federal regulatory system is strong and comprehensive, and is designed to keep pace with the continued rapid advances in agricultural biotechnology.  Over the past decade that biotech crops have been commercialized, there has never been a single reported human health incident or harm to the environment.  In fact, under strict government regulations and strong industry oversight, biotechnology has improved food crops with significant benefits to farmers, consumers, and the environment.”

 BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and 31 other nations.  BIO members are involved in the research and development of health-care, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products.

Advance media registration for the BIO International Convention is now available online. Registration is complimentary for credentialed members of the news media.  To register, please visit www.bio2007.org/Media.  Reporters and editors working full-time for print or broadcast news organizations may register onsite with valid media credentials.  All freelancers, college and online publications are strongly encouraged to register in advance by Friday, April 20, 2007.

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