University of Saskatchewan researchers are looking into the pros and cons of growing genetically modified wheat.
The study, being led by agricultural economist Hartley Furtan, is designed to cut through the rhetoric surrounding the issue of genetically modified organisms and figure out how growing GM wheat might affect farmers’ income.
“It will be our analysis of GMOs and what the potential is and some of the problems and some of the benefits,” he said.
The $33,500 study, to be completed by October, is funded by farmers through the Western Grains Research Foundation.
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The study will focus on factors that lend themselves to a dollars-and-cents analysis, including production and handling costs, and the impact on prices.
While there are no GM wheats currently in production, there are a number in the research and development pipeline. Furtan said he expects they could be on the market in two years.
He said GM wheat should lower production costs by reducing the need for herbicides and possibly boosting yields.
Segregation of the new varieties will be an essential part of marketing to retain consumer confidence. That will likely mean more handling at country elevators and higher marketing costs.
Researchers will also talk to the Canadian Wheat Board and key buyers of Canadian wheat to come up with an estimate of how these new varieties might affect prices.
The study won’t analyze health issues or consumer reaction.
