Anti-GM groups, however, argue that in many developing countries, GM crops are now grown mainly for export by big farmers, not for local consumption, and that there are big effects of this monoculture cropping. Ten years after the first GM crops were planted, evidence is mounting that the technology can increase crop yields with apparently little environmental impact, particularly in developing countries. In India, for example, GM cotton has increased yields by around 150 per cent, trebled...

Butch Otter is leading Idaho agriculture leaders and businessmen on a trade mission to Cuba this week (April 9-14) on a quest to search for new markets for Idaho products. The trade mission comes as legislation recently introduced in Congress seeks to ease burdensome restrictions that impede agricultural trade to that country. But the cost of shipping Idaho beans, which are higher quality than those in other states that grow them without irrigation, made it economically impractical....

Cairns Group moot starts: rich states urged to end agriculture subsidies MUHAMMAD RIAZ LAHORE (April 17 2007): The three-day meeting of the Cairns Group that is a unique coalition of 19 developed and developing agricultural exporting countries with a commitment to achieve free trade in agriculture commenced here on Monday. Cairns Group moot starts: rich states urged to end agriculture subsidies MUHAMMAD RIAZ LAHORE (April 17 2007): The three-day meeting of the Cairns Group that is a unique...

While the "supply shocks" had triggered the price rise, the actual cereals stock (both rice and wheat) of 17. The general increase in the prices of agricultural commodities due to higher food and non-food demand also means higher incentives, which should lead to an increase in their supplies during 2007-08. Last year the stock of wheat had touched a low of two million tonnes in April as against the norm of four million tonnes. It said, while worries about inflation are justified, the...

When cooking with flowers use only those that you grew yourself without chemicals or flowers that you know have been grown without pesticides. The petals of pot marigolds, or calendula, are recommended for salads, as are chive blossoms, rose petals and dandelions. Some of the flowers are tasteless and just provide color while some, like the flowers of herbs, can add significant spice or flavor to foods, Jadrnicek said. The view from the kitchen window includes all varieties of blooming...

According to the Whole Grains Council, whole grains are a great source of minerals and vitamins that may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and obesity. Adopt a big-picture approach to healthful eating by making positive, sustainable long-term changes, says registered dietitian and nutrition author Barbara Dixon. Soup-Up Lunch or Dinner - To take whole grains beyond breakfast, add a half cup of cooked wheat or rye berries, wild rice, brown rice, sorghum or barley to...