Consumers unsure about risks in their diets

Around 90% of people would be concerned about eating chicken from a factory contaminated with bird flu. In fact, there is no scientific evidence to prove that the food chain has a role in the contraction of bird flu in humans. Nearly a quarter of people surveyed, and particularly those aged over 66, thought that there is a very low risk, or no risk at all, from drinking raw milk. However, science reveals that raw milk can not be guaranteed free from germs, even when produced under the best possible hygiene conditions. A study in 1996-7 found that 4% of raw milk contained harmful bacteria that could make people ill. And 65% of people were concerned about the safety of consuming GM food. But scientific evidence tells proves that the GM foods currently available are as safe as their non-GM counterparts, posing no risk to the consumer. Research also found that people are more likely to trust the advice of a friend or a family on health issues than scientists. But figures also suggest that there is now little concern about the safety of eating beef. Scientist Professor Colin Blakemore explained: "It's clear that scientists need to communicate reliable evidence in a way that everyone can understand and to find constructive ways of engaging with the public on areas of concern. It's a challenge that the FSA will have to rise to." The survey has been conducted for tomorrow's launch of the first meeting of the independent General Advisory Committee on Science (GACS), where the question 'Should we trust what scientists say about food' will be discussed. Weblink: www.food.gov.uk