A major survey on GM foods has confirmed that consumer opinion on the controversial technology remains undecided.
The study by market analyst IGD showed that more than half of those questioned (52 per cent) neither support nor oppose the technology and only seven per cent of consumers could give an accurate definition of GM foods.
The survey found that one in three consumers would trust the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to provide accurate information on GM, with 15 per cent favouring independent scientists.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) is calling for more research and objective analysis into GM technology.
NFU president Peter Kendall said: “Contrary to the highly polarised 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.”
“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.”
Kendall urged the FSA to take up GM research and provide the information needed by the public, as well as farmers and growers.
He also underlined the need for the government to re-assess research and development funding in the UK.
Kendall said: “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 the 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.”
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