Alicia,
Why is it that the first criticism thrown by those who are supportive of
biotechnology is that those who have any opposition are "anti-science?"
Since I am the person on this list who has done most of the criticism of
Martek oils,  should I assume that you consider that I am "slightly"
anti-science?  I would not characterize myself as anti-science.

Science has to be somewhat devoid of bias.  Funding has a way of either
slightly or massively changing attitudes.  A science based on
multi-corporations motives for larger profits, may not be based on evidence
but rather a corporate view of "life."

I find it difficult to understand how you have come to the conclusions you
have based on reading the patents.  I do not know what your definition is of
genetic engineering but this is the definition of cloning (how these
organisms are produced) by the FAO (Food & Agriculture Organization)
http://www.fao.org/DOCREP/003/X3910E/X3910E00.HTM

"gene cloning--a process of synthesizing multiple copies of a particular DNA
sequence using a bacteria cell or another organism as a host.  The gene of
interest is inserted into a self-replicating DNA molecule (DNA vector, often
a plasmid) and the resulting recombinant DNA molecule is amplified in an
appropriate host cell, used in genetic engineering; molecular cloning."

The NAS (National Academy of Science) gave a grant in 1998 of $1 million to
develope this new technology.  The patents specifically mention recombinant
organisms, yet we are to believe that this is not genetic engineering.

Yes, I agree we should pay more for DHA and AA, it's a complicated science.
Of course, we pay double for it.  If we pay taxes, we pay it out to the
government who gives grants to biotech companies like Martek (of course none
of us breastfeeding advocates have $1 million grants but..).  Then as
consumers we get to pay for it at the grocery counter.  And, then as
consumers we get to pay for it again because our infants aren't breastfed and
they are sicker, etc.  A great system and it keeps alot of people employed.

I have nothing against scientists nor do I have a problem with the need for
people to make money.  What I have an issue with is a science run by
corporate need for larger and larger profits.  And if that paints black on
white lab coats, then that is indeed a problem.  Valerie W. McClain, IBCLC




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