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by Ann Veneman, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

(Recently) , the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) issued its latest warning on the dire food crisis in southern Africa. Citing the fact that 13 million people are on the brink of starvation, the FAO urged donor countries to commit critically needed food aid and financial support to avert a large-scale humanitarian crisis.

Current food aid pledges will meet only a quarter of anticipated needs in southern Africa. The United States remains the leading food aid contributor to the region, committing about half a million tons of food aid. However, our ability to deliver desperately needed food has been greatly hindered by individuals and organizations opposed to biotechnology and who are providing misguided statements about the U.S. food system.

It is disgraceful that instead of helping hungry people, these individuals and organizations are embarking on an irresponsible campaign to spread misinformation and create an atmosphere of fear, which has led countries in dire need of food to turn away safe, wholesome food.

Now is not the time to inflame the debate about biotechnology. Now is the time to feed starving people. The food we are offering to southern Africa is the same nutritious food that Americans eat every day. The U.S. regulatory process ensures that people around the world have access to a safe, reliable food supply.

The United States will continue to do its share to help nations in need, and we encourage other donors to help meet the challenge.