The lack of scientific information and understanding of genetically enhanced grains hinders the U.S. ability to fully penetrate the South Korean market. This lack of information renders negative publicity and consumer perception resulting in the enforcement of strict biotechnology labeling laws. Additionally, the Korean government expanded biotech food labeling regulations to include corn syrup and corn oil, as well as to cover all food products that contain biotech food ingredients and biotech additives.
Currently, no local food processors are willing to use biotech ingredients in food products. As a nation that imports 98 percent of its feed grains needs, its strict biotech policy is considered a potential threat to the trade flow of U.S. grains.
“There is a critical need to inform the general public about the safety and benefits of biotech products,� said Byong Ryol Min, U.S. Grains Council director in Korea. “However, the majority of local public instructors do not deliver an objective and balanced message about agricultural biotechnology.�
The U.S. Grains Council discovered the South Korean high school curriculum to contain non-factual information on genetic engineering, especially as it relates to food. This leaves a simple message in students’ minds, “biotech is bad.�
In order to effectively change this negative perception of biotechnology, the Council is striking at the roots to keep the next generation of consumers well informed. Last week, the Council sponsored a six member team of Korean educators to travel to the United States to study how agricultural biotechnology is developed, tested, approved, grown and utilized within the United States and to broaden their understanding on its safety and benefits.
“Improving their understanding on the science-based technology and introducing the educational tools used in the United States provided the participants confidence to effectively deliver an objective and balanced message about agricultural biotechnology and biotech food ingredients to their students,� said Min.
The team visited to life science companies, universities, education institutes, farms, food processors, grocery stores, trade associations and related government bodies.
Following the trip, the Council will monitor the classroom curriculum of these educators and provide the necessary assistance where needed.