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6 - Labelling of Food from GMOs: Options to Consider by Developing Countries

from Part I - Risk Analysis Methodology and Decision-Making

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 July 2017

Ademola A. Adenle
Affiliation:
Colorado State University
E. Jane Morris
Affiliation:
University of Leeds
Denis J. Murphy
Affiliation:
University of South Wales
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Summary

When considering the options for labelling of GM food, consumers' rights are critical. One of the rights, namely, safety of GM food is addressed by the extensive requirements from governments to ensure food safety. Two more rights remain to be answered; to have information and to be able to choose between GM food and non-GM food. This chapter deals with a plethora of labelling regimes, out of which Codex Alimentarius could not achieve harmonisation. The many factors that impact on GM labelling regimes are reviewed and discussed, such as global trade, markets, and consumer literacy and awareness. Labelling of GM-food will not necessarily meet the consumers' need for choice and information on a very technical subject such as biotechnology. One of the most serious impacts of GM labelling could be the cost implications to consumers and governments. The probable increase in cost of food is a major concern for developing countries as it could affect the consumers' right to satisfaction of a basic need which is to have food. This chapter makes a number of recommendations for GM labelling in developing countries.
Type
Chapter
Information
Genetically Modified Organisms in Developing Countries
Risk Analysis and Governance
, pp. 64 - 74
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2017

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