Genetically modified foods Genetically modified (GM) foods are widely available in the United States, but are viewed with suspicion by the vast majority of people in Europe. To meet the growing food needs of a growing world population, science has discovered the technique of genetically modifying plants and crops to improve crop yields and create superior, stronger varieties of crops and fruits. These genetically modified plants are used as medicines and vaccines, foods and food ingredients, feed and fiber. Controversies surrounding genetically modified foods and crops commonly focus on human and environmental safety, labeling and consumer choice, ethics, food safety, poverty alleviation, and conservation. Some people consider this technology potentially harmful to human health because we don't know enough about the ways in which genes operate and interact to be sure what the outcome of any changes will be. They fear that alterations could accidentally lead to the production of poisonous substances or trigger allergies. So can we trust the food we eat? All food products, new or otherwise, are subject to a regulatory system that should ensure consumer safety and confidence. These regulations establish the standards that must be respected. Testing procedures are designed to catch problems before products hit the market. When we get sick from eating food, it's usually due to bad practices somewhere along the way. BSE/CJD is a prime example: rendering and Slaughterhouse industries have adopted ineffective procedures and have failed to remove certain meat products from the human food chain. Remember that we consumers also have responsibilities. One of the reasons that cases of food poisoning have increased dramatically in recent years is because we have not stored and prepared food properly in our kitchens. How do I know what I'm eating? The UK Government, together with industry, is attempting to produce better food labelling. - so that consumers know exactly what they are buying, both in the supermarket and in the restaurant. Current rules state that genetically modified foods must be labeled unless “