| The Chinese Government has approved genetically modified crops for direct human consumption. In a world first, the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture has approved GM rice and corn for commercialisation, declaring them safe to grow and consume, without having to be converted into oils or other processed products. It′s expected large scale plantings will begin within three years. Reports from the ministry′s biosafety committee indicate the GM rice will be more resistant to pest attacks, reducing pesticide use by 80 per cent and increasing yields by up to 8 per cent. GM corn is easier for livestock to digest, cutting pollution from animal waste. China is the world′s largest producer of rice, and experts say its approval of GM rice could prompt other countries to follow suit. | 
