Journal or Publishing Institution: Food Chemistry
Date of Publication: 02/01/2009
Study: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814608007632
Author(s): Botha, G.M., and Viljoen, C.D.
Article Type: Journal Publication
Abstract:
South Africa is the only country in Africa growing genetically modified (GM) crops, yet, consumer knowledge of biotechnology is limited and labelling regulations regarding consumer preference is lacking. In the absence of mandatory GM labelling, voluntary GM labelling is being used as a marketing strategy to attract discerning consumers. The aim was to detect and quantify the GM content in food products in South Africa, specifically labelled to indicate an absence of genetic modification. Of the products labelled ‘GMO-free’, ‘non-GM’ and ‘organic’, it was found that 31% had a GM content above 1.0% and 20% a GM content above 5.0%. Product batches differed by up to 40% in terms of GM content. In the absence of specific regulations, voluntary GM labelling is not providing discerning consumers with the choice intended. Thus, unregulated GM labelling is not a viable alternative to a regulated approach in terms of consumer protection.
Keywords: consumer protection, genetically modified crop, labeling, risk assessment, South Africa
Citation:
Botha, G.M., & Viljoen, C.D., 2009. South Africa: a case study for voluntary GM labelling. Food Chemistry, 112(4), 1060-1064.
Category:
- Health effects
- Regulatory issues
Record ID: 240