Genetically modified foods (or GM foods) are foods produced from organisms that have had specific changes introduced into their DNA using the methods of genetic engineering. Currently, the EU has one of the stringent regulations of GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) foods in the the world. All GMOs, along with irradiated food, are considered "new food" and are subject to extensive, case-by-case, science-based food evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority. There are currently no GM crops being grown commercially in the UK although scientists are carrying out controlled trials. In the UK, foods have to be labelled as GM if they contain genetically modified plants or animals. GM foods can only be sold if the Food Standards Agency judges that they do not present a risk to health.
62% Yes |
38% No |
42% Yes |
38% No |
16% Yes, but require the labelling of foods that are genetically modified |
|
4% Yes, but producers should not be able to patent seeds |
See how support for each position on “Genetically Modified Foods” has changed over time for 799k UK voters.
Loading data...
Loading chart...
See how importance of “Genetically Modified Foods” has changed over time for 799k UK voters.
Loading data...
Loading chart...
Unique answers from UK users whose views extended beyond the provided choices.
@9QQ4MKL3wks3W
Food should be natural not man-made. Stop putting chemicals in our food, spraying food with harmful pesticides. It is damaging people's health
@9QKGT8Q3wks3W
Yes, but only if the modification is to find cleaner/greener ways of growing crops that help sustain the environment.
@9Q9WPPP3wks3W
Yes, to an extent. I don't think you should be able to patent seeds, but using GMOs does impact the food chain, which could have long reaching and unforeseeable consequences.
@9Q9VXQQ3wks3W
No, it needs to be more tested for health effects plus we would also need to consider the chain reaction it would have with farmers etc
@9Q7XG4H3wks3W
Yes in very strictly regulated circumstances. Producers should not be able to patent seeds or profiteer. Everything should be clearly labelled. There is potential for good but with big business involved there is also huge scope for it to go wrong.
@9Q7GFYB4wks4W
Yes, but producers should not be able to patent seeds, foods should be labelled and it should be heavily regulated.
Join in on the most popular conversations.
