Genetic modification: solution or problem?

Wednesday 02 December 2009, 18.00-20.00
The Library, The Chemistry Centre, Burlington House

Are global food targets sustainable without help from GM technology?

We can't escape the fact that genetic modification is now a well-established and widely used part of the food supply chain. Over 13 million farms grow GM crops, yet GM remains a controversial and emotive issue. There is far from universal acceptance of its use in food production, particularly in Europe. In the UK, farmers are not growing GM crops themselves, although GM crops are fed to British livestock. There is still significant concern about possible risks from GM. Supermarkets will not move away from their non-GM policies if people don't want GM food. 

In the context of food insecurity and climate change, do we need to look differently at GM? Is there any real need for it in the UK? Have all the possible risks and benefits been explored? Our expert panel explored these questions and more in a lively and informative debate.

The panel included:

• Professor Alan Malcolm - Former Chief Executive, Institute of Biology
• Peter Melchett - Policy Director, Soil Association
• Professor Erik Millstone - Professor in Science and Technology Policy, SPRU, University of Sussex
• Professor James Dunwell - Professor of Plant Biotechnology, University of Reading
• Dr Colin Merritt - Sustainability Communications Manager, Monsanto UK Ltd 

This event was organised jointly with the Institute of Food Science and Technology.