September 11, 2009 (Saskatoon, SK) - The Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission is closely monitoring recent volatility in the European marketplace. European labs have been testing Canadian flax for evidence of genetic materials. Reports from Europe and the Canadian Press now speculate that Canadian flax exports have been contaminated with a genetically modified flax variety.

As there are no genetically modified varieties of flax registered or commercially produced in Canada, it is very important to determine the source of these tests and resolve the question of possible supply contamination. The Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission fully supports the Flax Council of Canada (the national flax trade association) who is working with the Canadian Grain Commission and leading scientific experts to fully investigate these reports.

We will communicate any and all findings with our producers as soon as they become available.

For more information, contact:

Linda Braun, Executive Director
Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission
Saskatoon, SK
Tel. 306-664-1901
Email: saskflax@saskflax.com