Probe shows exported rice not contaminated in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFSR) strongly refutes the claims regarding the cultivation of genetically modified organisms (GMO) rice in Pakistan, as reported recently in media. The allegations suggesting contamination in Pakistani rice exports due to GMO seeds are unfounded and not reflective of the Ministry’s official position.

Following the receipt of a Rapid Alert Notification from the European Union (EU) through the EU-Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) on August 2, 2024, the Department of Plant Protection (DPP), an attached department of MNFSR, promptly initiated a comprehensive inquiry into the matter.

The inquiry focused on verifying the integrity of Pakistan’s rice value chain and testing rice samples for GMO traces. Key findings of the inquiry included that the samples collected from the rice processing units and seed stock were tested at national and internationally accredited laboratories. Reports from these laboratories, including Eurofins and National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetics Engineering (NIBGE), Faisalabad, confirmed that Pakistani rice production and export consignments were free from any GMO contamination. It was determined that the flagged consignment of organic rice was repacked and re-exported by a Dutch company. Subsequent sampling in Germany indicated the possibility of cross-contamination during repacking, marketing, or sampling processes, rather than at the source in Pakistan. The comprehensive investigation reaffirms that Pakistan’s rice production and export systems strictly adhere to non-GMO standards.

The MNSR emphasizes that ensuring compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards remains a top priority. The Ministry has taken up the matter with the EU authorities and requested clarity on the testing processes and potential points of cross-contamination during repacking or marketing stages. Pakistan is committed to maintaining its reputation as a reliable supplier of premium-quality, GMO-free rice to global markets.