Chapter 9. Questioning GM Foods
- John Bryant Professor2,
- Dr Linda Baggott la Velle3,
- Revd Dr John Searle4
Published Online: 18 APR 2002
DOI: 10.1002/0470846593.ch9
Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Book Title
Bioethics for Scientists
Additional Information
How to Cite
Mayer, S. (2002) Questioning GM Foods, in Bioethics for Scientists (eds J. Bryant, L. B. la Velle and J. Searle), John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, Chichester, UK. doi: 10.1002/0470846593.ch9
Editor Information
- 2
School of Biological Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- 3
Graduate School of Education, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- 4
Exeter & District Hospice, Exeter, UK
Publication History
- Published Online: 18 APR 2002
- Published Print: 31 MAR 2002
ISBN Information
Print ISBN: 9780471495321
Online ISBN: 9780470846599
- Summary
- Chapter
Keywords:
- environment;
- GM;
- labelling;
- opposition;
- patent;
- precautionary principle;
- public;
- regulation;
- risk;
- safety
Summary
There has been increasing public rejection of GM crops/food, especially in the UK. This rejection is not based on ignorance but on genuine issues that need addressing. Some people have intrinsic objections to GM technology itself but amongst the many who do not, concerns include risk (to health and to the environment), the role of purely commercial interests and the lack of consumer choice. For those who object to the technology, labelling of all GM foods is vital. Further, the possible risks make application of the precautionary principle absolutely necessary, recognising that our current knowledge is very incomplete. The view that objections to GM crops will prevent their application in alleviating world hunger is countered by the fact that the technology is in the hands of powerful commercial organisations that are in a strong position to exploit poorer countries. The whole topic needs widespread and open debate at all levels.