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<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> digestibility of taro, because it breaks down oxalate, a known anti-nutritive compound <br /> that contributes to the `itchiness' of taro. Chitinases should have little effect on humans <br /> when consumed, because chitins are found in true fungi and insects but not in plants or <br /> mammals. Resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and it might improve the <br /> nutrition of GE Chinese taro due to its anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory <br /> effects. Of course, prior to any potential commercialization of GE Chinese taro, federal <br /> government regulations require intensive food safety tests. <br /> What are the plans for GE Chinese taro when this nroiect terminates? <br /> The early results for increased disease resistance of GE Chinese taro appear <br /> promising, but much more research is needed. Obviously, researchers cannot state that <br /> GE Chinese taro is more disease resistant without testing plants in the greenhouse and <br /> ultimately in the field. In addition, the federal government would require tests of GE <br /> Chinese taro for food safety and environmental concerns prior to commercialization. <br /> <br /> This federally funded project on genetic engineering of Chinese taro for increased <br /> hardiness will run out of funds in early 2007. As a result of the current controversy about <br /> genetic engineering and taro, it isn't likely that future funding will be available without <br /> support from the taro industry and/or consumers in Hawaii. Without further funding, the <br /> GE Chinese taro lines either must be discarded or sent to other cooperators in the world <br /> who are willing to conduct further tests. We will lose the opportunity in Hawaii to test <br /> these promising lines for increased disease resistance. <br /> This brief summary presents the scientific facts about potential benefits such as <br /> increased hardiness of GE Chinese taro and an evaluation of possible risks. You, as taro <br /> consumers, need to weigh the possible risks against potential benefits of GE Chinese taro. <br /> Ask yourselves what risks are acceptable to ensure that taro is here for future generations <br /> to enjoy? <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> 6 <br />