A mega-operation launched in seven states and the Federal District of Brazil to combat the illegal keeping and trade of genetically modified ornamental fish has so far resulted in 36 infraction notices, totalling R$2.38 million in fines, and the seizure of 58,482 modified specimens of species used in aquarium keeping. The agents found varieties of the species paulistinha (Danio rerio), tetra-negro (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) and beta (Betta splendens) genetically modified to emit fluorescence by inserting genes from anemones or jellyfish, giving them strong colours, with the ability to bioluminesce when subjected to ultraviolet light. Brazilian government

 

 

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took aim at a long-criticised food safety loophole on March 10, directing the Food and Drug Administration to explore rulemaking that would end companies’ ability to “self-affirm” ingredients as safe without oversight. The move, part of Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) mission promises “radical transparency” for consumers — but faces a steep climb against industry resistance and agency limits. Kennedy’s order targets the FDA’s Substances Generally Recognised as Safe (GRAS) rule, which lets manufacturers deem ingredients safe by using internal data, often skipping FDA notification. [GMW comment: We hope this may take in GM foods, which have been approved on the basis of a GRAS affirmation by the company that wants to market the product. GMO companies normally do notify the US FDA of their intention to market their products. But GRAS status is meant to be based on published scientific evidence and a scientific consensus on safety – which GM foods submitted for approval have lacked.] Food Safety News

 

 

Glyphosate use has been extended by a year, to the end of 2026, in Britain, after the Glyphosate Renewal Group (GRG) provided the UK Health and Safety Executive with a dossier to support their application to renew the approval of glyphosate. Bayer is the "lead member" of the GRG. GMWatch comment on article in HortWeek (paywall)

 

 

A rollout of new 2-ounce GMO Arctic apple packaging in schools and foodservice channels nationwide is planned for this spring, featuring "bold, playful colours" in bright "kid-friendly packaging" plus "Artie", their new mascot. The GMO Arctic apple slogan is "Keep an eye out for Artie!" We think you should. Tell your kids to avoid Artie and his genetically engineered apples, which are pre-sliced and sold in plastic packaging. Fresh non-GMO apples are widely available and don't need to come wrapped in plastic! GMWatch comment on article in The Packer

 

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