EXCLUSIVE ONLINE REPORT

Genetically Modified Canola
Contamination in Japan

Martin Frid



Wild-growing genetically-modified (Gm) canola plants have been found at many locations around Japan. The first investigations by concerned citizens started in 2004. Spilling occurs mainly near harbours and by roads leading from harbours to food oil companies. Many small/medium size companies in Japan make food oil from domestically-grown rape seed (natane), and many plants of related species are eaten traditionally in Japan. The local food oil manufacturers, farmers and consumers — who want to eat healthy and safe food — stand to lose should Gm canola continue to proliferate in Japan.

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Martin Frid was born in Sweden, currently lives in Japan. Worked for over a decade in the NGO sector as a food and trade policy expert in Brussels and London, before moving back to Japan in 2003.

Blog: Kurashi: News from Japan
("Kurashi" is a Japanese word that can mean lifestyle, sustainable living, and livelihood)

 

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