The discovery of StarLink genetically modified corn in food for human consumption in Japan has caused concern among Japanese food and grain importers and aroused fears among consumers about food safety.
Critics say the discovery shows the government was not paying serious attention to the issue, adding that it highlights the lack of international laws governing genetically engineered crops.
Akira Hanawa, president of Genetic ID (Japan) Inc., said his Yokohama-based genetic inspection firm has been operating at full capacity since a citizens' group announced last month that it had found traces of StarLink gene-spliced corn in food and feed in Japan.