Speaker’s Tour on Genetically Engineered Foods and Human Health

6:30 pm Tuesday November 26th at the Watermark on Main Street in Osoyoos

Two Canadian scientists will be speaking in the South Okanagan to answer your questions and concerns regarding GE (genetically engineered) foods and human health.

Dr. Thierry Vrain, a retired soil biologist and former head of the biotechnology department at the Summerland Research Station, was paid to research and promote genetically engineered organisms.  After a 30-year career with Agriculture Canada, he speaks against GE technology.

Dr. Shiv Chopra is a former Health Canada senior scientific advisor who blew the whistle on bovine growth hormone (rBGH).  Banned in Canada, bovine growth hormone is used in the United States to induce excessive milk production in cows.  Dr. Chopra will discuss the how the Canadian regulatory process can be easily compromised to serve corporate interests.

Although genetically-modified corn for cattle is grown in the Similkameen Valley, both the BC Fruit Growers Association and the Similkameen Organic Treefruit Growers are against introduction of genetically-modified fruit including the Arctic Apple.  The technology for the Arctic Apple was first developed in Australia.  Ironically, the Arctic Apple was made possible in Canada with the assistance of the Summerland Research Station.  The Arctic Apple is promoted by Okanagan Specialty Fruits.  The non-browning apple could destroy the organic fruit industry.

Given that GE salmon, GE apples, and GE alfalfa are close to entering the marketplace in Canada, it is more important than ever for Canadians to learn and discuss this pressing matter and to discover how – and who – they can advocate for change.

This is a free event.  Doors will open at 6:30 pm Tuesday November 26th at the Watermark Beach Resort Vineyard Room (across from Shoppers Drug Mart on Highway 3) in Osoyoos.