Genetically Modified foods must be adequately Labelled

A matter of great international interest and one which is becoming a matter of increasing public interest in Guyana, is the issue of Genetically Modified Organisms or GMO’s.

Consumers International celebrated the last World Consumers Rights Day (March 15, 2005) on the theme, “Consumers say NO to GMO’s”.  Many countries, including Guyana, joined the celebration on the said theme, thus, sensitising and educating consumers worldwide about  the implications of the issue – GMO’s and GM foods.

Genetically Modified Organisms or GMO’s are organisms created by the modification of the genetic material of an organism by inserting a modified gene or a gene from another variety of species.  GMO’s may be plants, or animals or micro-organisms.

A genetically modified product (or GM product) is produced from a Genetically Modified Organism (GMO). GM products include food and food ingredients, feeds, fibers, medicines and vaccines.

As the debate for and against GM foods rages, the proponents argue that GM foods are safe and there is a myriad of benefits to be obtained including, increased resistance of crops to droughts, disease, pests, decreasing reliance on particular increased yields and nutrients; reduced time and enhanced tests and quality.

On the other hand, the opponents are questioning the development of allergies and toxic substances in GM foods, the transfer of antibiotic resistance markers, the unintended transfer of trans genes through cross-pollination, the loss of flora and fauna biodiversity, and deleterious changes to agricultural and industrial practices, including increased environmental pollution.

It must be recognised that genetically modified foods remain poorly studied and scientists simply cannot say with any authority that they are absolutely safe for human consumption.

Genetic engineering is a young and poorly understood technology. GM foods may have been rushed too quickly to the market before adequate testing was done to ensure public health. Genetically altered foods can cause serious risks to human health.

Scientists claim genetic engineering may produce new toxins, with potentially devastating results for humans.

Genetic engineering may also involve the transfer of new and unidentified proteins from one food into another, with the potential of setting off allergic reactions.  Without labelling, persons with allergies would not know if they are consuming foods that contain genes from other foods to which they are allergic.

In Guyana, there is great need for a national policy to be formulated on GMO’s, GM foods and food ingredients, backed by supporting legislation or modification of the current legislation.

Consumers have a right to be informed about GM foods  even when there are no significant changes in the product composition, characteristics, nutritional values and their intended use.

With so many health, environmental and ethical considerations surrounding GM foods, it is absolutely necessary that all GM foods are labelled to help consumers to make informed choices. 

Consumers have a right to  know whether the foods they eat have been genetically modified.

The labelling of GM foods should be made mandatory for consumer health concerns and to indicate their method of production to allow consumers to make informed choices.  There is need for a mandatory standard for GM foods and food ingredients.

A public education programme to sensitise consumers about the on-going debate and the possible implications of GM foods and food ingredients should be done.

Further, an  independent testing facility should be established to have GM products tested.

There must be full regulatory control by the Food and Drug Department of all imported GM foods and food ingredients thus, ensuring the registration of importers, the submission of compliance or test certificates documented, and the proper labelling of the foods.

Consumer protection is of paramount importance.