A Survey of Genetically Modified Foods Consumed, Health Implications and Recommendations for Public Health Safety in Trinidad

Genetically modified foods provide one of the major challenges facing the food industry in the twenty-first century worldwide. The safety of genetically modified foods are being questioned by scientists, researchers and doctors as it is believed that these foods may pose a serious public health risk, especially for the young, aged, pregnant and immunocompromised persons. The present study investigated the following: (i) consumer awareness of genetically modified foods, (ii) identify genetically modified foods sold in Trinidad, (iii) consumption rates of genetically modified foods and (iv) provided recommendations on the control use of genetically modified foods. The results of the present study revealed that the majority of consumers (90 %) knew very little about genetically modified foods. This was mainly due to lack of information provided by the relevant Government agency. Many consumers were actually consuming genetically modified foods without their knowing. Genetically modified foods that were available on the supermarkets’ shelves and sold throughout Trinidad included baby foods, bakery products, confectionery, meat and meat products, fruit drinks and juices, soups, fruits and vegetables. These genetically modified foods were sold to consumers without either their knowledge or consent. Most suppliers (67 %) were unaware that they were selling genetically modified foods to the public. Genetically modified foods constituted more than 65 % of the diet and these foods were consumed at a rate of at least 6-8 servings per day per person. Common reported health problems associated with consuming genetically modified foods included diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, difficulty in breathing, respiratory problems, hormonal imbalances and susceptibility to infection. The present legislation, that is, the Food and Drugs Act and Regulations of 1960 is ineffective and is not fully enforced and does not allow for the removal of genetically modified foods from supermarket shelves. There is an urgent need to enact and upgrade existing legislation, policies, procedures and practices to regulate, control and reduce the use of genetically modified foods until sufficient reputable, strong, empirical, scientific evidence exists to prove otherwise. At present the safety of genetically modified foods remains questionable mainly because of insufficient long term scientific data, and the vulnerability of the developing and developed countries to satisfy the food demands of their growing populations. Governments and their relevant food agencies worldwide should take the necessary precautionary measures to prevent exposure to or minimize the risk of exposure to genetically modified foods. This may serve to avert any future public health crisis and to minimize any potential food safety risks.