Frankenstein foods

Article Abstract:

There has been some unthinking opposition to genetically modified foods in the United Kingdom, but the issues raised by critics should be addressed. There should be a more explicit debate on the impact of such foods on the environment. There could be some environmental benefits from using crops that require smaller amounts of herbicides and pesticides. There is no evidence of damage to human health from these products, but individual products could still pose a threat. There are signs that popular opinion is influnecing policy, rather than scietific evidence, as has occurred with US beef treated with hormones, which is banned in Europe.

Editorial, Economic aspects, International trade

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Who's afraid?

Article Abstract:

The British government has to decide how to reassure the public on the safety of genetically modified (GM) foods, and how the benefits of such foods can be enjoyed while protecting humans and the environment. This issue faces Europe, Australia and the US, though the consumer backlash has been stronger in Britain. Producers rather than consumers benefit from GM foods, and this is one reason why consumers have not accepted them. Transparency over regulations would help, as would labeling of such foods. There may have been an overreaction to this issue, but it cannot be ignored by governments.

Safety and security measures, Laws, regulations and rules, Biotechnology industry, Biotechnology industries, Cover Story

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Genetically modified government

Article Abstract:

The United Kingdom government is seeking to reassure the public that genetically modfied (GM) food is safe, and scientists generally see it as safe to eat, but the public is less convinced. There are memories of the BSE affair, and the British Medical Association has argued for a ban on planting GM crops commercially. The public trusts doctores, and environmental and consumer groups more than the government. Impartial and transparent decision making after consultation is favored by the public, and the government is seen as supporting GM products for economic reasons.

United Kingdom, Political aspects, Portrayals, Genetically modified plants, Agriculture and politics, Agricultural politics

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