FOOD IMPORT

Sri Lanka has banned import of all genetically modified (GM) food with immediate effect, a senior health ministry official recently announced. Chief food inspector of the health ministry S Nagiah told the media: "The government wants to wait until the controversy surrounding GM foods has cleared." He said the government's food advisory committee was keen to avoid health risks associated with genetic modifications. Moreover, he pointed out, that there were no price advantages to be gained from importing GM foods. Although Sri Lanka does not produce any GM foods, it is a significant importer of wheat and sugar.