Genetically modified vegetables in organic baby food

Wiso: Genetically modified vegetables discovered in baby food: Hipp and Demeter affected

07/10/2013

Especially in organic baby food no genetically modified food should be processed. Now so-called CMS hybrids (cytoplasmic male sterility) have been detected in products of Hipp and Demeter.

These altered crops do not pollinate themselves, resulting in a more productive harvest and which are also used by organic farmers. The ZDF magazine „WISO“ took random samples of genetically modified vegetables in organic baby food. Especially the two companies strictly reject genetic engineering. In all samples of Demeter-Holle baby food „Broccoli with wholegrain rice“ genetically modified vegetables could be detected.

Nearly a quarter of Hipp's samples tested were „WISO“ find. For the investigation had „WISO“ Have a total of 37 samples of organic baby food from Demeter, Hipp, Alnatura and Bioland tested in various cities and on the Internet. Only the samples of Alnatura and Bioland contained no genetically modified components.

Demeter and Hipp want to do their own tests
„WISO“ had already conducted an investigation two months ago and found that frozen cauliflower from the Demeter brand Natural Cool was genetically engineered. Demeter responded immediately and took the product off the market. Due to the new results, Demeter declared that he wanted to carry out his own investigations in order to own his own „right-loadable analysis results“ to obtain. The Demeter board Alexandriner Gerber says: „Should it turn out that in the of „WISO“ tested baby glasses was not Demeter broccoli, we will take this product off the market“. Also, the company Hipp announced that it would become active itself to ensure that in the future „no traces“ more of genetically modified vegetables will be found. „We will tighten the analysis“, so the managing director Johannes Doms.

Vegetable varieties are so-called CMS hybrids
The Federal Organic Food Association BÖLW prohibits the cultivation of genetically modified vegetables. „When we issue a ban, we must also ensure that it is enforced“, BÖLW chairman Felix Prinz zu Löwenstein said. Therefore, tests are necessary with farmers, processors and trade. Seed labeling is necessary to maintain standards. More detailed information will be provided by „WISO“-Moderator Martin Leutke presented on Monday (19:25 clock). (Fr)

Image: Sebastian Karkus