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 817k UK voters.
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See how importance of “Genetically Modified Foods” has changed over time for 817k UK voters.
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Unique answers from UK users whose views extended beyond the provided choices.
@9MJZ9951wk1W
Sometimes. Most genetic modification in nutritional products are done with the profit incentive in mind and the impacts on human, animal and soil health not well researched.
@9MBHCMB2wks2W
It depends on the nature of the modification and requires many rules and regulations. But if it is a modification designed to harm wildlife then no
@9HZKYP2 3wks3W
Yes but only if producers are banned from patenting seeds and required by law to clearly label the GM foods, and after more independent research into the long term effects on biodiversity and food security as well as public health.
@9M89YVR3wks3W
It should be done to increase nutrition as along as it doesn’t get to the point of it becoming a requirement to drive out non-genetically modified crops and foods.
@9M4Y9XQ3wks3W
Yes, but with regulations on attributes selected for and measures to reduce the impact of unintended seed dispersal
@9LXWZW54wks4W
Yes, as long as it is made extremely clear to the buyers that they are genetically modified, and a lot of research is made into figuring out if they are safe to consume/imbibe.
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