The National Biosafety Authority has granted a permit to Freddy Hirsch Group Limited to import spices that may contain ingredients made from genetically modified organisms.
And the Authority has also permitted the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia to conduct research using a vaccine made from genetically modified material aimed at fighting diarrhoea in infants.
Authority Communications Officer Sandra Lombe tells Money FM that Freddy Hirsh will bring in different varieties of spices, of which some are used in the production of some sausages such as boerewors.
“Freddy Hirsh will bring in different varieties of spices, of which some are used in the production of some sausages such as boerewors. The company applied to bring in 29 products among them; Garlic powder, Paprika Rosen, ZAMBEEF HP, ZAMBEEF French Polony, Beef Sausage, Boerewors farm Style ‘R” , Hunters Biltong Seasoning, Oukraal Wors ’R’, Cumberland pork sausage, Russian Montana and Peri Peri rub spices.” said Lombe.
Others are Tapioca Starch , Soya Protein Isolate, Super Reform 150 Ham, Chilli Bite, Seasoning (Hot), BBQ Beef, Instant Cure S, NF Curing Brine S, Beef Burger, QM Barbeque Marinade, Continental French , French polony, GM Aufschnitt, Pork Sausage ‘R’, Coriander ground, Pepper black ground, BBQ Sprinkle, Vienna and Supreme Braai.
This means that whoever buys the above mentioned products is expected to have a copy of Freddy Hirsch’s permit. Henceforth, all those making products using the said spices for sale will be required to clearly label their products that they ‘May contain ingredients of GMO products’.
She explained that Failure to do so will lead to seizure and burning of their products in accordance with the provisions of the law. It is important that the products are labelled so that people make informed decisions when purchasing such food products.”
The National Biosafety Authority was established under the Biosafety Act No. 10 of 2007.
Through the Act the NBA regulates the research, development, application, importation, export, transit, contained use, release or placing on the market of any GMO/LMO whether intended for use as a pharmaceutical, food, feed or processing, or a product of a GMO also to ensure that any activity involving the use or a product of GMO prevents any socio-economic impact or harm to human, animal health and the environment in the country.