GOLDEN RICE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Agriculture)

Context: A court in the Philippines recently revoked biosafety permits for commercial propagation of genetically modified golden rice and Bt eggplant.

Golden Rice

• About: It is rich yellow colour, was genetically engineered to contain higher levels of the micronutrients iron and zinc in the grains while also producing beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. 
• Approval: In 2021, the Philippines became the first country to approve commercial production of the rice variety. However, non-profit organisations such as Greenpeace and local farmers protested the decision.
• Development: It is developed through genetic engineering and produces two new enzymes that complete the beta-carotene expression in the rice grain.
• Nutritional Benefit: Research has indicated that one cup of Golden Rice can provide up to 50% of the daily requirement of an adult for vitamin A.

Vitamin A

• About: Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is good for healthy vision, skin, bones, and other tissues in the body.
• Deficiency: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) or hypovitaminosis A is a lack of vitamin A in blood and tissues. It is common in poorer countries but rarely is seen in more developed countries.
• Health Implications: Night blindness, A higher risk of infections, Follicular hyperkeratosis leading to dry skin, Fertility issues, and Delayed growth in children.