News Releases

DATE:	August 5, 2002
CONTACT:	Leslie Cahill
	(703) 837-8140

ASTA Supports Administration's Biotech Field Test and Food Safety Proposal

ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA (Aug. 5, 2002) – The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) supports the proposed announcement on August 2, 2002 by the Bush Administration to update field-testing requirements of biotechnology derived food and feed crop plants and to establish early food safety assessments for new proteins produced by new plants.

“To maintain consumer confidence and to realize the maximum benefit to producers, consumers and the environment from the commercialization of biotech derived products, advancements in technology, marketing and regulations must remain consistent”, said Richard T. Crowder, Chief Executive of ASTA. “The proposal being made by the government will help ensure that science based regulations and technology move together. It will also provide additional confidence in biotech derived products for customers of the seed industry and for feed and food product users, domestically and internationally” he added.

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Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), located in Washington, DC, is one of the oldest trade organizations in the United States. Its membership consists of about 900 companies involved in seed production and distribution, plant breeding, and related industries in North America. As an authority on plant germplasm, ASTA advocates science and policy issues of industry importance. Its mission is to enhance the development and free movement of quality seed worldwide.