As a contribution to this process, Panos produced a background briefing paper on GM crops and issues around their introduction into Africa.
GM food
What are GM foods?
Genetic modification allows genes to be isolated and moved from one organism to another, resulting in a genetically modified organism (GMO). Genetic modification of food can be used in a variety of ways, such as to promote long-life or improve the nutritional value of the food.
New technologies play an increasing role in food production, and genetically modified foods are at the forefront of the changing nature of our food culture. The Food Standards Agency is the UK authority for evaluating GM foods under the EU novel Food Regulation, and oversees safety assessment of GM foods by independent scientists.
How are GM foods approved for safety?
All genetically modified (GM) foods to be marketed in the EU are subjected to a rigorous safety assessment before being permitted to enter the food chain. In the UK this can involve up to 60 independent scientists.
The FSA will make public the results of these assessments, unless it is commercially confidential, so as to allow input into the evaluation process. The reports of the assessments are also made public.
The Agency takes expert advice on the safety aspects of GM foods from the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes.
The Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP)
When assessing 'novel' food, the ACNFP bases its safety assessment on the comparison of the GM food with the food that it is meant to replace. Similarities and differences between the novel food and the existing food are identified and examined. The Committee then decides whether the novel food can be considered equivalent to, and therefore as safe as, the existing food. This approach is set out in EC guidelines, has been endorsed by the World Health Organisation and is widely used by other countries.
What GM foods are on sale in the UK?
Three genetically modified foods and ingredients are currently on sale or used in foods in the UK:
- GM tomatoes sold only as tomato puree (Note: the FSA understands that this product has now been withdrawn by supermarkets)
- GM soya
- GM maize
There is no GM fresh produce currently available.
What about labelling of GM foods?
The government supports consumer choice and current rules require that all foods containing GM material should be clearly labelled. The FSA will continue to press the European Commission to bring forward tougher regulations on 'GM free' claims.
