Golden Rice: The Silver Lining of GMOs?

          In a few of our readings, class lectures, and discussions we explore the world of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), which are generally developed by western industrialized societies and then marketed to less-developed nations as potential solutions to hunger, disease, pests, or climate change. 

The consensus seems to be that GMOs represent more of another form of imperialism than an altruistic endeavor, with large corporations from the global North gaining profits through selling “Franken-foods” to the vulnerable South.  These crops often have uncertain side effects, and can be more susceptible to problems from disease (because of monoculture) and corporate greed or corruption. 

But are there any cases in which GMOs could truly help solve a problem in the developing world without controversy?  In this blog, I am arguing that Golden Rice represents a non-controversial GMO that, if used and marketed correctly, would significantly benefit populations in the global South.

What is Golden Rice?

Golden Rice is normal rice infused with beta-carotene (a source of vitamin A), which causes it to appear yellow in color.  Beta-carotene is naturally found in crops such as corn, squash, carrots, and melons; and is important because vitamin A supports immunity and eyesight.  A large portion of the diet of many people in Asia and Africa consists of rice—these populations tend to lack sufficient vitamin A.  As a result, ¼ to ½ million children go blind each year.  In addition, about 2 million die from disease as a result of weakened immune systems from vitamin A deficiency.  Just one bowl of Golden Rice can supply a child with 60% of their daily vitamin A requirements.

Unlike most GMOs, developed by chemical companies to be resistant to pesticides, chemicals, or harsh weather conditions; Golden Rice is naturally infused with vitamin A and contains no known traits that could cause it to outcompete natural rice.  In addition, it contains no new allergens or toxins that could present a threat to human health.  Also unlike many GMOs, Golden Rice was developed by a non-profit known as the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), not a corporation.  The creators gave the patent to the agribusiness known as Syngenta on the condition that Golden Rice seed would be made freely available to poor farmers who need it most, and these farmers can choose to plant it however they see fit—this was in an attempt to avoid absolute corporate control of golden rice and to ensure it gets into the hands that need it most. 

            Characteristic of GMOs, there is still some controversy surrounding Golden Rice.  It has yet to be approved in its target countries, such as the Philippines.  A recent scandal involving testing on Chinese children created a wave of distrust in the crop.  Some argue that it represents a “Trojan horse” for biotechnology, and that support for Golden Rice comes not from a desire to save children, but from a desire to give GMOs a better name.  Finally, there is the concern of “unforeseen risk” that causes leaders to be hesitant to support Golden Rice.

Overall, Golden Rice seems like a promising option for helping millions in Asia and Africa who depend on rice and suffer from vitamin A deficiencies.  The consensus within the scientific community is that Golden Rice contains no harmful qualities to cause apprehension, and that its benefits could be huge.  Already, reputable organizations like the Rockefeller Foundation and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation strongly advocate for the approval and use of Golden Rice in Asia and Africa.  Whether or not governments and the public will agree remains to be seen, but Golden Rice does look to be a silver lining in the otherwise controversial world of GMOs.