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Ethical Implications of Animal Biotechnology: Considerations for Animal Welfare Decision Making Issue Paper
Part 9, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." Animal biotechnology, which includes both genetic engineering and mammalian cloning, has expanded rapidly in recent decades. These technologies already have been applied in biomedical research and now are nearing application within the food system. This paper from CAST reviews animal biotechnology techniques, discusses related key ethical issues, evaluates religious views and traditions regarding animal biotechnology, summarizes public opinion research on the topic, and evaluates the challenges and opportunities for the ethical development of agricultural animal biotechnology. Chair: Paul B. Thompson, Professor of Philosophy, Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics and Community, Agriculture, Recreation, and Resource Studies, Michigan State University, East Lansing. IP46, 16 pp. FREE. Available online and in print (fee for shipping/handling).
Agricultural Productivity Strategies for the Future: Addressing U.S. and Global Challenges Issue Paper
This timely Issue Paper includes a preface from Dr. Norman E. Borlaug and has been prepared as an update of CAST Paper No. 1, written by Dr. Borlaug in 1973. The authors of the current paper address (1) future demands facing agriculture; (2) the relationship of bioenergy and bioproducts to agriculture; (3) major issues impacting future U.S. agricultural productivity; (4) major issues facing agricultural productivity in other parts of the world; (5) strategies to meet future food needs; and (6) examples of research areas that could enable the next "Green Revolution." The authors question the commitment by the United States and many other countries for support of agricultural research and indicate the far-reaching impact that such research, education, and resulting technology--or lack thereof--will have on the nation and the world. Chair: Gale Buchanan, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The University of Georgia, Tifton Campus. IP45, January 2010, 16 pp. FREE. Available online and in print (fee for shipping/handling).
Water, People, and the Future: Water Availability for Agriculture in the United States Issue Paper
Despite current uncertainty about the United States' economic future, most reports suggest that growth will resume and competition for freshwater will continue. As one of the largest users of water in the United States, agriculture will be impacted significantly by changes in water availability and cost. How water managers and users respond to water use challenges will determine, in part, the long-term availability of water for municipal, agricultural, and other uses. The authors provide insight into how water challenges are being addressed in four specific areas of the United States as helpful case studies in developing solutions to similar water issues in other regions. Chair: Dr. Sharon Megdal, Water Resources Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson. IP44, November 2009, 20 pp. FREE. Available online and in print (fee for shipping/handling).
Animal Productivity and Genetic Diversity Issue Paper
PART 8, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." This new paper, "Animal Productivity and Genetic Diversity: Cloned and Transgenic Animals," discusses two of the most recent reproductive technologies used to improve agronomic traits in livestock. One main limitation to the further development and use of these technologies has been the lack of public acceptance. The 8-member international Task Force of this new Issue Paper suggests that the government develop a regulatory process that addresses consumers' apprehension while offering realistic expectations of biotechnology. The authors address topics including the cloning of farm animals for breeding and direct food consumption; disease resistance in transgenic animals; and the use of transgenics for improved food safety and quality, decreased environmental impact, and increased production efficiency. Chair: Robert Wall, Agricultural Research Service's Animal and Natural Resources Institute, Beltsville, Maryland. IP43, August 2009, 16 pp. FREE. Available online and in print (fee for shipping/handling).
Scientific Assessment of the Welfare of Dry Sows Kept in Individual Accommodations Issue Paper
The use of individual gestation accommodations (IGAs) for dry sows in commercial pork production is an issue that has raised much debate. Public perceptions and misconceptions of welfare issues have the potential to dramatically impact swine production. The nine-member international Task Force of this new Issue Paper critically evaluates the scientific evidence of IGAs for sows, including considerations for behavior, nutrition and feeding, reproduction, clinical examination and health, manure management, worker safety, and system design. The authors indicate that no compelling evidence exists from scientific evaluations and comparisons of dry-sow keeping systems that, overall, either individual or group accommodation is more appropriate than the other. Chair: Stanley Curtis, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana–Champaign. IP 42, March 2009, 20 pp., FREE. Available online AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Ruminant Carcass Disposal Options for Routine and Catastrophic Mortality Issue Paper
When producers decide which carcass disposal method to use, they must consider the number of mortalities, the cause of death and whether infectious agents are involved, environmental implications, regulatory requirements, operational costs, and efficiency. This Issue Paper provides a comprehensive summary of the scientific, technical, and social aspects of various ruminant carcass disposal technologies using information gleaned from a Kansas State University comprehensive report. The authors discuss the predominant methods of mortality disposal in commercial ruminant production, including burial and landfill, rendering, composting, incineration, and alkaline hydrolysis. The paper includes an Appendix that addresses special considerations for material potentially infected with diseases. Chair: Marty Vanier, National Agricultural Biosecurity Center, Kansas State University, Manhattan. IP41, January 2009, 20 pp., FREE. Available online AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Poultry Carcass Disposal Options for Routine and Catastrophic Mortality Issue Paper
Methods for the disposal of poultry carcasses currently include burial, incineration, composting, and rendering. Although each method is preferable under specific circumstances, each also presents disadvantages, including potential effects on groundwater and increasing cost considerations. With those concerns in mind, there are other, emerging technologies for carcass disposal that may offer viable alternatives. Methods, strategies, and practical applications presented in this paper summarize acceptable means for disposal of poultry mortality. Chair: John P. Blake, Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama. IP 40, October 2008, 20 pp., FREE. Available online AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Swine Carcass Disposal Options for Routine and Catastrophic Mortality Issue Paper
This Issue Paper provides a critical assessment of information available on methods of swine carcass disposal under routine and catastrophic conditions. The authors have focused on efficiency and effectiveness of available methods as well as potential animal health and environmental protection considerations. The paper addresses the four predominant methods of mortality disposal in commercial swine production--burial, incineration, rendering, and composting--and various alternative and nontraditional methods and technologies. Chair: Allen Harper, Virginia Tech Tidewater Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Suffolk. IP 39, July 2008, 16 pp., FREE. Available online AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Vaccine Development Using Recombinant DNA Technology Issue Paper
PART 7, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." Infectious animal diseases continue to rank foremost among the significant factors limiting efficient production in animal agriculture. In addition, infectious agents that are transmitted from animals to humans by way of food and water present an increasing threat to the safety and security of the world food supply and continue to affect human health significantly. Animal vaccines are among the most effective, successful tools for preventing and controlling infectious diseases in animal agriculture. This Issue Paper addresses these concerns and provides details about specific diseases and vaccines. Chair: Mark W. Jackwood, Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens. IP 38, May 2008, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Implications of Gene Flow in the Scale-up and Commercial Use of Biotechnology-derived Crops: Economic and Policy Considerations Issue Paper
This Issue Paper identifies the nature of gene flow and discusses the relatively limited situations in which it is likely to cause economic problems in the production of commercial biotech crops. The paper explains how gene flow relates to adventitious presence, describes the biological traits being imparted into biotech crops, summarizes present risk assessment and regulatory mechanisms, and discusses potential economic effects and policy and research ramifications of gene flow of commercial biotech crops. Chair: David Gealy, USDA--Agricultural Research Service, Stuttgart, Arkansas. IP 37, December 2007, 24 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Probiotics: Their Potential to Impact Human Health Issue Paper
Controlled human studies have revealed a diverse range of health benefits from consumption of probiotics, due largely to their impact on immune function or on microbes colonizing the body. This publication reviews the literature on probiotics, describes the characteristics of probiotics, discusses the microbes that colonize the human body, and explains how probiotics can treat and prevent disease. The paper also addresses safety issues of probiotic use, suggests future developments, and provides research and policy recommendations. Chair: Mary Ellen Sanders, Dairy and Food Culture Technologies, Centennial, Colorado. IP 36, October 2007, 20 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
The Role of Transgenic Livestock in the Treatment of Human Disease Issue Paper
PART 6, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." This paper describes the potential for transgenic livestock to advance the development of new medications for the treatment of human disease. Two techniques discussed in this paper are the predominant methods used to produce transgenic livestock, pronuclear microinjection and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). The paper offers a brief overview of current production methods and challenges, and addresses economic, regulatory, and societal factors that impact the commercialization of products and treatments derived from transgenic animals. An appendix provides an in-depth description of the SCNT methodology. Chair: Carol L. Keefer, University of Maryland, College Park. IP 35, May 2007, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Biotechnological Approaches to Manure Nutrient Management Issue Paper
PART 4, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." Manure from food animals is a valuable source of fertilizer, but concentrations of manure nutrients and metals may exceed needs for plant growth and cause environmental pollution. Biotechnology has emerged as one of the most effective tools for monitoring manure nutrient composition. This paper reviews the existing biotechnology (including novel technology) applied to manage animal manure nutrients and discusses potential biotechnology derived by genomics approaches. It also addresses specific areas of plant-, animal-, microorganism-, and diet-based approaches for management; models of potential benefits of biotechnology; and industrial, societal, and governmental issues. Chair: Xingen Lei, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. IP 33, July 2006, 20 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Safety of Meat, Milk, and Eggs from Animals Fed Crops Derived from Modern Biotechnology Issue Paper
PART 5, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." As the global land area of biotechnology-derived crops continues to increase, these crops have become an increasingly important source of feedstuffs for farm animals, and it is important to review the safety of meat, milk, and eggs derived from animals fed these crops. This paper addresses topics including an overview of regulatory assessments for biotechnology-derived crops modified for agronomic input traits; comparative safety assessment process; results of feeding studies in farm animals; and the fate of consumed proteins and DNA in livestock. Chair: Richard Phipps, University of Reading, Reading, UK. IP 34, July 2006, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Acrylamide in Food Issue Paper
As an industrial chemical, acrylamide has been studied extensively for more than 40 years, resulting in a broad base of scientific knowledge covering various toxicological endpoints, metabolism, kinetics, mode of action, and health effects in animals. Very little scientific evidence is available in humans, particularly with respect to food. This paper covers research concerning the occurrence of acrylamide in food, including formation and detection; methods of mitigation and reduction; dietary exposure; toxicology and epidemiology; and the elements of accurate, effective risk communications. Cochairs: David Lineback, University of Maryland, College Park, and Michael Pariza, University of Wisconsin, Madison. IP 32, June 2006, 16 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Using Risk Analysis to Inform Microbial Food Safety Decisions Issue Paper
Protecting the public from food safety risks, while maintaining a viable agricultural and food industry in an open society, is a daunting task. Risk analysis provides a systematic and transparent process for gathering information, estimating risks, weighing options, drawing conclusions, and communicating information to arrive at decisions that meet broad societal needs. This paper identifies and defines the components of a valid microbial risk analysis and focuses attention on risk assessment strategies, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each. Cochairs: Lee-Ann Jaykus, North Carolina State University, and Sherri Dennis, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland. IP 31, June 2006, 20 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Metabolic Modifiers for Use in Animal Production Issue Paper
PART 3, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." This paper provides a discussion of metabolic modifiers--a group of compounds that alter the physiology and metabolism of animals in specific ways to improve efficiency of meat and milk production and, in certain instances, to improve yield and composition of animal-derived products. The paper describes the classification, characteristics, and effects of metabolic modifiers approved for use in animal production and presents the current status of metabolic modifier approval around the world. Topics include a brief history of this technology, applications, and contributions to animal agriculture. Co-authors: Donald Beermann, University of Nebraska, Lincoln and Frank Dunshea, Department of Primary Industries, Werribee, Victoria, Australia. IP 30, July 2005, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Agricultural Ethics Issue Paper
This paper provides background on some ways in which ethics is applied productively to the food and agriculture system. Ethics may be a component in food safety and security, international trade, land-use policies, and animal welfare. Other topics considered include research ethics, public trust in science, and practical steps for institutionalizing ethics into agriculture. In addition to the scientific community, policymakers, agency leaders, and persons in the humanities and social sciences disciplines will find this study useful. Chair: Jeffrey Burkhardt, University of Florida, Gainesville. IP 29, February 2005, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
El Riesgo Global de las Enfermedades Animales Infecciosas Issue Paper
Animal diseases impact food supplies, trade and commerce, and human health worldwide. Some outbreaks have had severe consequences on the economies and social well-being of the population in affected countries. This paper discusses patterns of livestock diseases, factors affecting the emergence of diseases, impacts on human health, and international monitoring and response efforts. Cochairs: James Pearson, International Consultant, Ames, Iowa, and M.D. Salman, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. IP 28, February 2005, 16 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Global Risks of Infectious Animal Diseases Issue Paper
Animal diseases impact food supplies, trade and commerce, and human health worldwide. Some outbreaks have had severe consequences on the economies and social well-being of the population in affected countries. This paper discusses patterns of livestock diseases, factors affecting the emergence of diseases, impacts on human health, and international monitoring and response efforts. Cochairs: James Pearson, International Consultant, Ames, Iowa, and M.D. Salman, Colorado State University, Fort Collins. IP 28, February 2005, 16 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Bioenergy: Pointing to the Future Issue Paper
Composed of five stand-alone pieces, this issue paper highlights the current science, processes, and potentials for energy production through agriculture, and outlines future research needs. Among the topics addressed in this introduction to the subject of bioenergy are the economics and rural development of bioenergy, environmental and natural resource effects, technology and research, and the need for a systems approach. Public policy considerations such as long-term societal issues and acceptable risk also are discussed. Cochairs: Roger K. Conway, USDA-OEPNU, Washington, D.C., and Don Erbach. USDA-ARS, Beltsville, Maryland. IP 27, November 2004, FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Animal Organ Donors: Human Health Applications Issue Paper
PART 2, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." This issue paper examines current and future concerns and benefits for using animals as organ and tissue donors (xenotransplantation). The authors provide a careful review of the procedure's history and development, as well as an outline of possible applications for the future as xenotransplantation impacts human health. Cochairs: Jeffrey L. Platt, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, and Randall S. Prather, University of Missouri, Columbia. IP 26, June 2004, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Intervention Strategies for the Microbiological Safety of Foods of Animal Origin Issue Paper
Prepared by a task force of thirteen scientists, this issue paper provides a timely consideration of critical issues: microbiological safety of foods of animal origin during production; food processing strategies for manufactured foods of animal origin, both ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat; food safety initiatives in retailing; consumer interventions to enhance food safety; challenges to applying food safety controls uniformly across all sectors of the food service industry; and recommendations for development and application of new intervention strategies to decrease human illnesses attributed to foods derived from animals. Chair: Michael P. Doyle, University of Georgia. IP25, January 2004, 24 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Nutraceuticals for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Issue Paper
Authored by a task force of six scientists, this issue paper identifies existing and emerging issues in the development and use of nutraceuticals' food compounds with health-promoting, disease-preventive, or medical properties. The paper sheds light on consumer questions, key regulations, and safety issues, and provides recommendations on research and policy needs. Chair: Mary Ellen Camire, University of Maine. IP24, October 2003, 16 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Biotechnology in Animal Agriculture: An Overview Issue Paper
PART 1 OF A 9-PART SERIES, "ANIMAL AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE THROUGH BIOTECHNOLOGY." Written by a task force of nine scientists, this issue paper summarizes existing and emerging technologies and assesses their current and potential impacts. The authors suggest that research on biotechnology in animal production is leading to breakthroughs on many fronts. Among the issues this paper addresses are uses in human and veterinary medicine; uses in animal production; vaccine development; food safety; environmental impacts; and ethical considerations of animal biotechnology. Chair: Terry D. Etherton, Pennsylvania State University. IP23, February 2003, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Environmental Impacts of Livestock on U.S. Grazing Lands Issue Paper
This issue paper takes a critical look at the environmental impacts of grazing systems and provides guidance on land management tools. Key issues of concern include alteration of wildlife habitat and degradation of soil and water quality. The authors find that current problems may stem from land use practices of several decades ago and may require active management practices to restore the land's health. Cochairs: William C. Krueger, Department of Rangeland Resources, Oregon State University, Corvallis, and Matt A. Sanderson, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, University Park, Pennsylvania. IP22, November 2002, 16 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Animal Diet Modification to Decrease the Potential for Nitrogen and Phosphorus Pollution Issue Paper
This issue paper outlines the technologies and approaches that poultry and livestock producers can use to decrease the amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus entering the environment. This study focuses on two nutrients and addresses two environmental concerns: volatilization and manure nutrient distribution. Decreasing the nitrogen and phosphorus excreted by poultry, swine, or cattle can minimize these concerns. Chair: Terry Klopfenstein, Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska, Lincoln. IP21, July 2002, 16 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Invasive Pest Species: Impacts on Agricultural Production, Natural Resources, and the Environment Issue Paper
This CAST issue paper provides policymakers and others with a nine-step guide to curtail the impact of non-native pests, including diseases, insects, and animals. These pests are the source of an estimated $137 billion annual economic burden to the United States and are the second leading cause of species endangerment. In addition, bioterrorism introduces another unknown risk factor into the already unstable mix of detrimental exotic species. Cochairs: Don M. Huber, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, and Martin E. Hugh-Jones, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge. IP20, March 2002, 18 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Evaluation of the U.S. Regulatory Process for Crops Developed through Biotechnology Issue Paper
A group of nine science and policy experts prepared this evaluation of the process by which U.S. regulatory agencies determine the safety of biotechnology-derived crops. The authors found that the U.S. regulatory process is comprehensive and meets its charge of ensuring that biotechnology-derived foods are at least as safe as foods derived using traditional breeding techniques. The paper poses and then answers questions about how safety assessments and regulatory reviews are conducted, what strengths and weaknesses can be identified in those reviews, and whether there are improvements in the regulatory process that would enhance public confidence in the process. The authors offer ten recommendations for policy and research in agricultural biotechnology. Chair: Bruce M. Chassy, College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois. IP19, October 2001, 14 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Johne's Disease in Cattle Issue Paper
Johne's disease is primarily an intestinal infection of ruminants. Largely ignored by the livestock industry in the past, Johne's disease has gained importance among producers because of the economic losses they incur from herd infections and the potential human health hazards associated with the causative agent Mycobacterium paratuberculosis. This study discusses the diagnosis, transmission, and control of Johne's disease; the impact of the disease on the food animal industry; and the possible impact on human health. Cochairs: Robert D. Linnabary, Department of Large Animal Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Gavin L. Meerdink, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana. IP17, May 2001, 10 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Professional Portfolio: Beyond the Curriculum Vitae Issue Paper
Individuals in the agricultural professions make valuable contributions to society, but the American public sometimes questions the relevance of those contributions and the impact of agriculture on the environment, human health, and the economy. This CAST issue paper was written to help agricultural professionals communicate clearly what they do and why it is important. The authors propose the development of a professional portfolio to be used instead of the traditional curriculum vitae. A portfolio would present career highlights and summarize accomplishments in terms that could be understood and appreciated by a broad spectrum of people--from the general public to funding agencies, colleagues, collaborators, and employers. Cochairs: James R. Fischer, Agriculture and Forestry Research System, Clemson University, and David A. Knauft, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. IP18, May 2001, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Estrogenicity and Endocrine Disruption Issue Paper
Exposure to synthetic and naturally occurring chemicals can affect important endocrine pathways and induce toxic responses. Authors from a variety of scientific disciplines contributed to the CAST paper, which provides an analysis of multiple, widely reported issues, such as altered reproductive development and increased incidences of cancer. Chair: Stephen H. Safe, Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station. IP16, July 2000, 16 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Relevance of Soil Testing to Agriculture and the Environment Issue Paper
This issue paper helps pinpoint factors that need to be considered as farmers and others use soil tests as a guide to protecting the environment while producing economical food. The issue paper provides perspective on the increasingly important role of soil tests, which farmers have long used in making crop production decisions. Chair: Eugene J. Kamprath, Department of Soil Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. IP15, June 2000, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Storing Carbon in Agricultural Soils to Help Mitigate Global Warming Issue Paper
The same farming practices that promote soil conservation can also decrease the amount of carbon dioxide accumulating in the atmosphere and threatening a global warming. Agricultural practices that conserve soil and increase productivity while improving soil quality also increase the amount of carbon-rich organic matter in soils, thereby providing a global depository for carbon dioxide drawn from the atmosphere by growing plants. Authors: Norman J. Rosenberg and Roberto C. Izaurralde, Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratory, Washington, D.C. IP14, April 2000, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Invasive Plant Species Issue Paper
Findings are presented on the growing danger to national forests, recreational, and agricultural lands from noxious weed infestations. These infestations are causing costly and irreparable damage to wetlands, wildlife habitat, wildlands, rangelands, and aquatic and riparian areas on public and private lands all across the United States, especially in popular western recreation states. The release of the paper was scheduled to coincide with National Invasive Weed Awareness Week, February 28 through March 3, 2000. Chair: Barbra H. Mullin, Montana Department of Agriculture, Helena. IP13, February 2000, 18 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Applications of Biotechnology to Crops: Benefits and Risks Issue Paper
This issue paper is a summary of the recent scientific developments that underpin modern biotechnology and a discussion of the potential risks and benefits when these are applied to agricultural crops. This introductory paper is intended for a general audience. Released at the Third Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization in Seattle, December 2, 1999. Authors: Gabrielle J. Persley, The World Bank, Washington, D.C., and James N. Siedow, Department of Botany, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina. IP12, December 1999, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Agricultural Impact of the Sudden Elimination of Key Pesticides under the Food Quality Protection Act Issue Paper
Scientists discuss the risks associated with sudden loss of pesticides due to the implementation of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 (FQPA) and suggest possible solutions. Chair: Mark E. Whalon, Center for Integrated Plant Systems, Michigan State University, East Lansing. IP11, March 1999, 14 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
The Proposed EPA Plant Pesticide Rule Issue Paper
A panel of five members of the National Academy of Sciences formed by CAST examine the scientific merits of the Biotechnology Industry Organization response to the major conclusions reached by eleven professional scientific societies on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposal to regulate genes which make plants resistant to pests by means of genetic engineering under the same regulations developed for use of chemical pesticides applied to plants. Chair: Eugene Nester, Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle. IP10, October 1998, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Feasibility of Prescription Pesticide Use in the United States Issue Paper
Discussion of the feasibility of applying the medical model of prescriptions to high-risk pesticides that are being reassessed following passage by Congress of the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) in 1996. Chair: Harold D. Coble, Department of Crop Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. IP9, August 1998, 10 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Examination of Dietary Recommendations for Salt-Cured, Smoked, and Nitrite-Preserved Foods Issue Paper
The scientific evidence does not support restrictions in the consumption of salted, smoked, or nitrite-preserved foods by the U.S. population. Chair: Michael W. Pariza, Food Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison. IP8, November 1997, 8 pp., FREE . Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Radiation Pasteurization of Food Issue Paper
Foodborne bacteria cause as many as 9,000 deaths in the United States annually; yet scientifically proven safe, low doses of pasteurizing radiation can kill over 99% of most foodborne bacteria. Radiation pasteurization safely controls foodborne pathogens on beef, pork, lamb, and seafood. Long-term animal feeding studies have demonstrated that radiation pasteurized or sterilized foods are safe and nutritious for humans. The process has been endorsed by the U.S. FDA, the USDA, the World Health Organization, the health authorities of 40 countries, and many other associations. Cochairs: Donald W. Thayer, USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, and Edward S. Josephson, University of Rhode Island, West Kingston. IP7, April 1996, 10 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Diversifying U.S. Crop Production Issue Paper
For more than a century, crop price instability has dogged U.S. farmers. And in the past 60 years--despite federal subsidy and acreage reduction programs meant to stabilize farm income--farm numbers, farm populations, and rural prosperity have declined ominously. Public concerns over food safety, commodity program costs, and agricultural sustainability have become important policy issues. Restriction of research funding and crop support payments to major commodity crops has undermined the potential of new crops to alleviate related concerns and pressures. The search for and development of new crops is critical to U.S. agriculture and would improve its sustainability through diversification. Chair: Jules Janick, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. IP6, February 1996, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Challenges Confronting Agricultural Research at Land Grant Universities Issue Paper
Agricultural, corporate, scientific, political, environmental, and social communities are asking the agricultural research sytem to identify and pursue a broadened range of research priorities. Chair: James R. Fischer, South Carolina Agricultural Experiment Station, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina. IP5, November 1994, 12 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Labeling of Food-Plant Biotechnology Products Issue Paper
Review of scientific evidence in response to proposed U.S. Food and Drug Administration policy for labeling of foods from new plant varieties. Chair: Susan F. Barefoot, Department of Food Science, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina. IP4, July 1994, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Risks and Benefits of Selenium in Agriculture Issue Paper
Scientists found no evidence that supplemental selenium use for farm animals and poultry, including feedlot concentrations, was involved in any environmental problems. Chair: James E. Oldfield, Department of Animal Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis. IP3, June 1994, 6 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Pesticides in Surface and Ground Water Issue Paper
Introduction; the issue; pesticide varieties, uses, and resulting pollution potential; relating concentrations in water resources to human and ecosystem risk; and risk mitigation. Chair: R. Don Wauchope, USDA, ARS, University of Georgia Coastal Plain Experiment Station, Tifton. IP2, April 1994, 8 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
Admissible Scientific Evidence in Court Issue Paper
Concurs with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and National Academy of Sciences (NAS) amicus curiae brief to the Supreme Court related to guidelines for determining what scientific evidence is admissible in a court of law. Author: F. J. Francis, University of Massachusetts at Amherst. IP1, July 1993, 4 pp., FREE. Available online (www.cast-science.org) AND in print (515-292-2125; fee for shipping/handling).
