The New Zealand wine industry has set itself against the introduction of genetically engineered vines, in reaction to the lifting of New Zealand's moratorium on the commercial release of genetically modified organisms.
That moratorium lapsed on 29 October, after the New Zealand government had passed legislation enabling both general and conditional release of GMOs for commercial purposes.
Meanwhile, New Zealand Winegrowers has released a policy statement on genetic modification. The document, dated 17 October, says, 'There is no value to be gained from the release of genetically modified grape or wine production organisms or material into the New Zealand environment in the future.'
New Zealand Winegrowers will not support a commercial release until they can be assured that the resulting wines are safe (both for the environment and for wine drinkers), of superior quality and 'acceptable' to consumers.
'New Zealand Winegrowers believes the release of genetically modified organisms into the New Zealand food chain at this time could undermine our international positioning as being clean and green.'
The statement does suggest that the industry remain open to research into genetic modification, especially if it provides opportunities to lessen reliance on chemicals and enhance sustainable production practices.
However, as Marlborough Grape Growers Association president Stuart Smith explains, there is widespread opposition to GMOs in the New Zealand wine industry: 'If we had genetically engineered grapevines, it would definitely harm our markets.'
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