The issue of labelling genetically modified (GM) foods is a complex one and so far, no international consensus has been reached on it. Singapore does not currently have any legislation or guideline specific for the labelling of GM foods.
GMAC has set up a subcommittee to monitor international trends and developments and to consider the issue of labelling in relation to Singapore. The Codex Alimentarius Commission is the international body jointly established by FAO and WHO to develop food standards and its work is carried out by subsidiary bodies such as the Codex Committee on Food Labelling (CCFL). The CCFL is studying the various facets of the labelling issue, such as threshold levels and methods of implementation, to come up with a comprehensive position. Singapore, being a member of Codex, is working with other countries in the CCFL to look into acceptable guidelines on labelling of GM foods.
Singapore's current position on labelling of GM food can be found at the following page:
Labelling on Genetically Modified Food, Singapore Food Agency
The composition of the GMAC Subcommittee on Labelling is as follows:
| Name |
Role in GMAC |
Designation |
Organisation |
| Prof Paul Teng |
Subcommittee Chair |
Managing Director |
National Institute of Education International (NIEI) |
| Mr Jeremy Woon |
Member |
Senior Manager (Biodiversity)
International Biodiversity Conservation Division |
National Parks Board (NParks) |
| Mr Derek Loh |
Member |
Deputy Director-General
International Affairs Division |
Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) |
| Ms Seah Peik Ching |
Member |
Deputy Director
Food Regulatory Management Division |
Singapore Food Agency (SFA) |
| Ms Janice Cai |
Member |
Deputy Director
International Trade Cluster |
Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) |
| Ms Chong Nyet Chin |
Member |
Director
Food Safety and Quality |
NTUC Fairprice Co-operative Ltd |
For more information, please see our archived articles:
The Straits Times , 28 Apr 2008
GM Labelling in Line with International Practice
The Straits Times, 9 Apr 2008
Don't be too quick to endorse GM foods |
