A state legislator from Grinnell plans to press for a three-year, statewideban on a certain type of genetically-modified soybean. Representative DannyCarroll wants to ban the use of genetically-modified “clear hilum” (hy’-lum)soybeans.Clear Hilum (hy’-lum) soybeans are used for soy flour, tofu and other foodsfit for human consumption. It’s a variety which accounts for a smallfraction of the soybeans planted in Iowa each year. Carroll believes hisban could help some Iowa farmers get a better price for that variety ofsoybeans in foreign markets.Republicans like Carroll have resisted other efforts to establish staterules for farmers as most farm policy is set at the national level, butCarroll says this is a special case.Iowa Soybean Association executive director Kirk Leeds says growers havemixed feelings about Carroll’s proposal as they support research to improvesoybean varieties, but also believe the change could help the small numberof farmers who raise “clear hilum” (hy’-lum) beans.
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