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Agency opens up GM food debate

Friday 14 February 2003

A range of initiatives to independently assess people's views on the acceptability of genetically modified food and how this relates to consumer choice was announced today by the Food Standards Agency. These initiatives will form the Agency's contribution to the wider Government debate about genetic modification.

The Agency's activities include a variety of initiatives to reach young people and consumers in low income groups, and ensure that their views on GM food are reflected in the wider Government debate about genetic modification.

These are:

The announcement coincides with the launch of a new FSA website about genetically modified food and publication of a booklet providing factual information to consumers about GM food.

The Agency’s activity is in line with its remit to protect consumer interests in relation to food, and demonstrates its commitment to consumer choice, openness and transparency.

Sir John Krebs, Chair of the Food Standards Agency, said: 'The Agency is carrying out a wide range of initiatives to deepen our understanding of consumer views on GM food – particularly those of young people and people on low incomes who don't often have a voice in public debates.

'We believe that all consumers should be able to express their views on this issue. Our aim – by using a number of innovative methods – is to engage with a variety of consumers, enabling us to make a distinctive and valuable contribution to the wider Government GM debate.

'Outcomes of all the FSA initiatives will be made public. They will also be discussed at an open meeting of the Food Standards Agency Board in Cardiff in the summer of 2003. Following discussion, the Agency will submit its views to Government.'

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