The problem facing Scott Deeter and Ventria is that although they have developed techniques that could be of great value in plant-made pharmaceuticals there is also intense controversy about potential risks associated with this technology. The use of genetic engineering to “phytomanufacture” protein pharmaceuticals holds many real and potential benefits. Though they have worked to come up with acceptable protocols, such as buffer zones around its plots, transporting rice in covered trucks, and using dedicated processing equipment, strong opposition still exists. Four advocacy organizations. Friends of the Earth, the Center for Food Safety, Consumers Union, and Environment California produced and submitted a detailed report for a moratorium …show more content…
Risk of contamination of their crops could have great consequences to the California rice industry. The primarily family owned rice farms had worked with highly sophisticated technology to develop a high quality industry. They have a growing need to satisfy increasing demand for specialty rices and need to maintain the identity of various types of rices. The over 2,000 rice farmers along with the California Rice Commission (CRC) that helps to protect the rice industry have sources of power as a primary industry in California. The continued success of the industry is important to the economy and to the many involved in the production process. Sources of power include not only the rice farmers themselves but also the government and many that would be hurt by threat of adverse consequences from the bioengineered rices.

The consumers both local and foreign also have an interest in the actions of Ventria. Many are opposed to genetically modified food. Japanese consumers along with many others react negatively to GM crops. They have a great interest in knowing that their food has not been contaminated with the GM crops. Consumer interests are a primary factor in the considerations of government regulators and the rice industry. They have influential strength and power not only from themselves but also the many that serve their