Ask for Prefix '8' on Hawaiian GE Papaya PLU Code

Biotechnology is credited with saving the Hawaiian papaya industry from the blight of ringspot virus.

Unfortunately, this was done without regard to prevention of 'cross-contamination' from genetically engineered papaya to non-GE papaya.

In fact, some consider it irresponsible to market a genetically modified papaya, and especially without labeling it. Indeed, even Japan does not allow importation of Hawaiian papaya without such labeling.

Therefore, distrust has also arisen in the US and Hawaiian marketplace among consumers who cannot distinguish GMO from non-GMO. The biotechnology industry, on behalf of its marketers, has argued that labeling would convey a negative impression to potential consumers, and has resisted labeling. This has further exacerbated the schism between dubious consumers and the Hawaiian papaya industry.

However, an international standard exists which could help resolve this divide in an inconspicuous way, if adopted by the Hawaii Papaya Industry Association.

We urge HPIA to voluntarily implement the International Federation for Produce Standards' convention for genetically engineered produce, by affixing the numerical prefix '8' to the PLU code for Hawaiian GE papaya. As mentioned, this would be unobtrusive except to the most discriminating shopper, and of course is also acceptable to the Produce Marketing Association.

By implementing this procedure, HPIA could not only show its product pride, but at the same time respect the freedom of choice of all consumers.