In Mexico, native corns, also known as heirloom corns, are considered one of the symbols of the country's biodiversity. Recently, a debate has arisen regarding the possible prohibition of planting transgenic corn. However, some argue that the main focus should be on how to preserve heirloom corns and promote their development.
Carlos Salazar, a professor-researcher at the Antonio Narro Autonomous Agrarian University and former leader of corn producers, believes that it is essential to support producers of native corns. He points out that the real debate should focus on conserving the genetic base of these corns, developing it to increase their productivity and competitiveness, as well as ensuring their utility and sufficiency in production for national consumption.
Despite having germplasm banks in institutions such as CIMMYT, the Yucatan Scientific Park, INIFAP, and Antonio Narro University, there is the problem that heirloom corn varieties are being lost in the fields. Salazar highlights that young people show less and less interest in working the land, which contributes to the loss of this agricultural wealth.
Moreover, he notes that farmers who grow heirloom corns are mostly small-scale subsistence producers, who face various challenges such as poverty, climate change, low crop yields, among others. These producers, who have been described as the poorest and most forgotten, need both social and productive support to preserve the corn varieties they cultivate.
The current debate also encompasses concern about the possible combination of heirloom corns with hybrid genes, other varieties, and even transgenics. It is necessary to establish long-term public policies that include measures to rescue, conserve, increase productivity, and add value to Mexican corns. Otherwise, the wealth of these varieties risks being forgotten.
In summary, to conserve the diversity of heirloom corns in Mexico, it is crucial to implement strategies that promote their preservation in the fields, providing support to producers and fostering their sustainable development over time.
