I applaud your effort to provide the public with more information on the important topic of genetically engineered foods and crops. However, one important area of discussion that has been overlooked in the development of this Web site is the 'efficacy' of golden rice to combat Vitamin A deficiency -- that is, will it work?

The causes of Vitamin A deficiency are extremely complex, and this perspective was not adequately represented on your Web site.

For a more informed opinion on this topic, I suggest your staff/editors review the letter to the editor by Dr. Marion Nestle, PhD, MPH, Professor and Chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, at New York University, published in the March 2001 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association - pp. 289-290, "Genetically engineered 'golden' rice unlikely to overcome Vitamin A deficiency."

I hope you consult Dr. Nestle's article so that you can obtain a more complete view of the 'real' challenges faced in addressing this complex nutritional problem -- Vitamin A deficiency -- and malnutrition in general.

Chris McCullum, PhD, RD

** NOTICE: In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed for research and educational purposes only. **