Extreme crop failures put the industry under pressure
The Swiss potato industry is facing major challenges: The above-average rainfall of the past year has massively favored fungal diseases such as late blight. The episode? Significantly lower yields and a strong dependence on imports. Without the purchase from abroad, there would already be a potato shortage in Switzerland.
In view of the precarious situation, many potato farmers are now pinning their hopes on genetically modified varieties that are resistant to fungal diseases. But there is a problem here: GM potatoes are currently banned in Switzerland.
Resistant potato varieties as a solution – but which ones?
New genetic engineering breeding methods could make potatoes more resistant within a very short time. “Although this is also possible with conventional methods, it takes much longer,” proponents of the technology argue. In addition, the classic breeding process could lead to the loss of other desired properties of the potato.
However, critics, such as Claudia Vaderna from the Swiss Non-GMO Alliance, disagree. In their opinion, there are already resistant varieties that have been bred without genetic engineering. In addition, she warns of possible risks: unwanted genetic changes, dependencies on international seed companies and an increasing monopolization of the market.
The debate: progress or risk?
While farmers are looking for practical solutions to the impending potato crisis, the political and social debate about genetic engineering remains controversial. Proponents see them as necessary to make agriculture more resilient to extreme weather events and diseases. Opponents, on the other hand, fear increased industrialization of the seed market and ecological risks.
But one thing is certain: Swiss potato production is under immense pressure. It remains to be seen whether a legal relaxation of the genetic engineering restrictions will prevail in the future or whether alternative resistant varieties will save the market.
What do you think? Should Switzerland reconsider its position on genetic engineering in order to secure the food supply? Have a discussion with us!
