How is the safety of GM foods assessed?
Particular safety concerns are raised in association with GM foods. Some issues of major concern are that the testing of GM foods is inadequate and that there may be potential long-term risks associated with the consumption of the foods. Answer The community has a reasonable expectation that foods in the marketplace are safe and wholesome. However, even foods with a long history of safe use carry a level of risk that must be balanced against the benefits of a varied and nutritious diet. Absolute safety of the food supply can never be guaranteed. The risks are generally managed through the level of knowledge that already exists in the community about traditional foods. In this context,safetherefore means that there is a reasonable certainty of no harm. Because GM foods are new, and a history of safe use is yet to be established, it is appropriate that a cautious approach is taken to their introduction into the food supply. This applies equally to any novel food where there is no establi
