Biotechnology in Wheat

Recently, a document in support of the commercialization of biotechnology in wheat was released jointly by the National Association of Wheat Growers, US Wheat Association, North American Millers’ Association, Grain Growers of Canada, Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association, Alberta Winter Wheat Producers Commission, Grains Council of Australia, Grain Growers of Australia, and the Pastoralists and Graziers Association of Western Australia (Inc.).

The Ontario Wheat Producers’ Marketing Board chose not to include their support of this document as the needs of Ontario wheat producers is unique. Ontario’s climate limits wheat’s susceptibility to drought and other weather extremes, a point the recent document suggest as an important benefit of biotechnology. Ontario is also not currently experiencing a decrease in acreage or yield of wheat like other regions in North America and Australia.

However, the board recognizes that this is an issue with growing importance. Therefore, our policy statement on biotechnology in wheat has been re-evaluated and updated to reflect the current situation. For the Ontario Wheat Producers’ Marketing Board’s position of biotechnology in wheat, please see our policy statement.

Ontario Wheat Producers’ Marketing Board statement on biotechnology in wheat

Ontario has a proven track record of responsible introduction of biotechnology in soybeans, corn and canola. All biotech crops are currently regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Health Canada. Crops derived through biotechnology are subject to regulatory scrutiny before commercialization.

The OWPMB wants to ensure that Ontario wheat producers have access to new technologies to grow their crops efficiently and sustainably.

Therefore, the OWPMB does not object to the development and introduction of biotechnology in wheat provided that:

• The technology adds value to producers, the industry, the environment and/or consumers.
• A marketing process is developed that assures the needs of customers of Ontario wheat are met.
• A stewardship requirement to maintain trait detection is utilized.
• Current science-based regulatory criteria must be upheld to ensure the safety of human and animal health and the environment.