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Sci Tech
GM potato and malnutrition
Sir,
This refers to the article `GM Potato and malnutrition' by Ramesh Bhat & S. Vasanti which appeared in these pages on July 24, 2003.
The authors make a case that the quantity of protein contained in GM potato, though 50 per cent more than the ordinary potato, (ordinary potato contains about 1.6 g protein per 100 g), is unlikely to make a dent on protein nutrition of school children since the average intake of potato by school-age children is only about 30 g.
The Recommended dietary allowance of protein (RDA) for children varies from 20 g to 50 g depending on the age of the children. The authors say that in order to meet the entire requirement of protein from potato the children would have to eat 1.5 kg of potato.
While this may be true, no one expects the entire requirement of a nutrient to be met from a single food item.
If even small additions in nutrient content of a variety of foods, which are commonly consumed, particularly staples, can be achieved through genetic modification or bio-fortification, (breeding naturally nutrient dense varieties), the effort should be welcomed. In some parts of the world, tubers like potato are the staple food.
The challenge before the scientists is to develop nutrient- enriched varieties, which are not only safe but also affordable.
The seeds of such varieties of plants should be made available to the farmers at a price they can afford. Initially all technological innovations are expensive, but the price can be brought down with increased production.
Developing countries like India must have a strong research programme in biotechnology, so that they are not at the mercy of bigger powers and multinational companies.
A multi-pronged approach is needed to ensure food and nutrition security for a fast growing country like India.
Mahtab S. Bamji
Former Director Grade Scientist
National Institute of Nutrition
Hyderabad
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