JUDGE OVERTURNS USDA’S APPROVAL OF GENETICALLY ALTERED SUGAR BEETS
News Date August 17, 2010
Federal District Judge Jeffrey S. White revoked the government's approval of genetically altered sugar beets until regulators complete a more thorough review (an EIS) of how the scientifically engineered crops affect other food. The ruling means sugar beet growers won't be able to use the modified seeds after harvesting the biotechnology beets already planted on more than 1 million acres spanning 10 states from Michigan to Oregon.
The sugar beet industry has indicated it intends to help the Agriculture Department come up with "interim measures" that would allow continued production of the genetically altered seeds while regulators conduct their environmental review. If a temporary solution isn't found, the planting restrictions are likely to cause major headaches for sugar beet growers and food processors. (Contact: Bob Ehart)