Tag: biotechnology
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New York Times Covers GE Bluegrass Controversy
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) recent decision to exempt genetically engineered (GE) Kentucky bluegrass from federal approval has reportedly stirred debate over how the agency regulates biotech crops, with some critics calling the outcome “a blatant end-run around regulatory oversight.” According to a July 1, 2011, press release, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection…
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Grad Student Uses Breast Milk Cheese to Study Biotechnology Ethics
A New York gallery has reportedly offered cheese made with the breast milk of three nursing women as part of a research project studying the ethics of modern biotechnology. The Lady Cheese Shop, a temporary art installation, recently gave out samples of West Side Funk, Midtown Smoke and Wisconsin Chew made from breast milk, screened…
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USDA Seeks Candidates for Advisory Committee on Biotechnology
The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture is requesting nominations for members to the Advisory Committee on Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture. Nominations for one- to two-year terms are requested by April 18, 2011. Members are selected to “achieve a balanced representation of viewpoints” to address USDA biotechnology policy issues. Issues of the most immediate concern involve…
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USDA Introduces “Biobased” Labels
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a final rule establishing a voluntary labeling program for “biobased” products made from renewable biological ingredients. Part of the USDA BioPreferred Program, which also administers procurement preferences for federal agencies, the labeling initiative applies to those products certified as containing a prescribed amount of renewable plant, animal,…
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Canadian Firm Seeks Approval for Biotech Apple That Resists Browning
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has reportedly been asked by a Canadian biotechnology company to approve its genetically modified (GM) apple, which resists browning after it is sliced. The British Columbia-based company apparently licensed the non-browning technology from an Australian company that developed it for potatoes. Approval of the GM technology could take several years,…
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Audit Standard for Biotech Compliance Program Available
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has published a notice announcing the availability of its biotechnology compliance assistance program audit standard. The document “will be used by participating regulated entities to develop and implement sound management practices, thus enhancing compliance with the regulatory requirements for field trials and movement…
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FDA Seeks Comments on Proposed Collection of Information on Foods from New Plant Varieties
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a notice seeking public comments on its proposed collection of information on foods derived from new plant varieties including those created through biotechnology. Comments must be submitted by April 19, 2010. The types of information that developers of new plant varieties would be required to provide to…
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FDA and Northeastern University Enter Research MOU
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has entered a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Boston’s Northeastern University to “develop collaboration between the two parties in the areas of education, research, and outreach.” Focusing broadly on biotechnology and analytical chemistry, the MOU is intended to “provide opportunities for exchanging of graduate and undergraduate students, faculty, and personnel…