China is going to introduce genetically-modified rice on a large scale as it seeks ways to adequately supply the basic staple to its people.

The Changsha Evening News quoted the head of the super hybrid rice scheme Yuan Longping as saying that GM rice would boost China's rice output by 30 billion kilograms a year. That's enough to feed 70 million more people.

According to supporters of GM rice, it will enable farmers to do away with the widespread use of dangerous pesticides, and result in better yields and higher quality grain that will spur farmers' incomes.

Critics say the long-term effects on human health have not been properly studied and it will create pests with greater resistance to pesticides.