October 16, 2003 – American consumers seem to be confused about what to do with genetically modified organisms (GMOs), claiming to be more opposed than ever to them but also revealing an astonishing willingness to consume them.
Thus, a poll carried out by Rutgers University, in New Jersey, established that 49% of people questioned were in favor of GMOs, a drop of 9% since 2001. This opposition seems soft, however, since 30 % of those who said they were against GMOs nevertheless said they were ready to buy them if they contained less fat, and 24% if they tasted better than unmodified foods.
In addition, 52% of American consumers now know that GMOs are found on supermarket shelves, and 26% of respondents said they believe they have already eaten. By comparison, in 2001 these percentages were 41% and 20%, respectively.
Some estimates suggest that 80% of processed foods contain varying amounts of GMOs.
This summer, a UK government-commissioned study concluded that the health risks from consuming GMOs were very low. The European Union nevertheless announced the very next day that all foods containing more than 0.9% GMOs must henceforth be clearly identified as such.
The GMO content of foods sold in Canada or the United States is not regulated.
Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net
From drkoop.com, eurekalert.com, foodnavigator.com, BBC News; July 21 and 22, October 16, 2003.
