SA Genetic Food Information Network (SAGFIN) website
Spokesperson: Anna Clements
Contact Details: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
(08) 8352 7729
Key Role of Member Group:
- To gather and disseminate information on all aspects of biotechnology, with a particular focus on Genetically Engineered (GE) foods and crops.
- To lobby state and federal governments, local councils and food companies on GE issues. SAGFIN acts as an advocate for community concerns and food and environmental safety.
Key Achievements and Activities for 2008/9:
- Quarterly Newsletter
- Maintain email list to publicise urgent information and calls to action.
- Distributing petitions and gathering signatures to call for more comprehensive labelling of GM food.
- Attending public meetings and forums on GE foods and crops.
- Writing submissions to parties as per invitation. Most recent submission to the WA parliament was in respect of The GM Crops Free Areas Act.
- Networking with other organisations regarding GE issues. Organisations include: GeneEthics Network; Institute of Health & Environmental Research, Greenpeace and Reclaim the Food Chain (Friends of the Earth), GE Free Alliance.
Identify three key environmental issues impacting on South Australia:
- 1. GE crop risks include environmental contamination by cross-pollination of conventional crops and related weeds resulting in 'super-weeds' and loss of bio-diversity.
- 2. Increased use of herbicides associated with herbicide resistant crops.
- 3. Release of GE DNA into soil, possibly damaging soil fertility; potential gene transfer of gene switches to micro-organisms, plants and animals causing unpredictable gene expression.
