NFU: Independent analysis on GM needed to help consumers decide

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Friday, 03, Oct 2008 12:00

A major new survey on GM foods has shown consumer opinion remains undecided on the controversial technology, despite five years of high profile media debate, with over half of those questioned (52 per cent) neither supporting nor opposing the technology.

In addition, the survey, undertaken by the IGD, found only seven per cent of consumers could give an accurate definition of GM foods, with just four per cent claiming to have a very good knowledge of GM. In light of this survey, the NFU is calling for objective analysis and more research into GM technology.

“Contrary to the highly polarized debate normally portrayed in the media, and by anti-GM lobby groups, this major survey of almost 6,000 consumers demonstrates that the majority remain undecided about GM. It also highlights a clear need for independent research and objective debate to allow consumers to come to an informed decision about GM food,” said NFU President Peter Kendall.

“The IGD survey found that the majority of consumers perceived a balance of risks and potential benefits from GM, including a widespread view that GM could help improve output and help feed a growing world population. This was weighed against concerns over food safety and environmental impact, both of which are legitimate issues that farmers and consumers need addressing.”

The survey found that one in three consumers would trust the Food Standards Agency to provide accurate information on GM, with 15 per cent favouring independent scientists.

“The gauntlet has been thrown down to the FSA, and we are asking them now to take up GM research and provide the information needed by the public and farmers and growers alike,” said Mr Kendall, who also underlined the urgent need for Government to re-assess the current poor state of research and development funding in the UK.

“We can no longer stand by and watch while applied agricultural scientific research in this country flounders because of inadequate funding and cooperation, with the result that our science industry is exported abroad, and the rest of the world develops technology like GM while we are left in the dark. The priority must be a fundamental re-assessment by Government of how we answer the complex challenges of food security for a rapidly-growing global population, and at the same time reduce our environmental impact.

“Scientific research into new technology like GM is at the heart of answering those challenges. What is needed is informed, rational debate based on objective research, which consumers have shown they want and need,” said Mr Kendall.

Notes to editors

1) The report can be downloaded from the IGD website at www.igd.com

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